Government Office for London launches its Race Equality Strategy

Tony McNulty, Home Office Minister of State for Immigration and Citizenship, opened the event emphasising the fact that although race equality has been on the public sector agenda for some time, particularly in London with its diverse communities, there was now a real sense of urgency in tackling inequalities. Only through this kind of action could strong and cohesive communities be built in which everyone has a voice.

The minister said:

“I really welcome GOL’s commitment to promoting race equality in their work. Government Offices are the link between policy and delivery of services, and are best placed to monitor outcomes, to build a detailed understanding of regional needs, and to encourage local areas to consider equality in every aspect of their work”.

He then went on to emphasise the role that GOL plays within London:

“As the most diverse city in the country, London can also set an example to other regions through innovation. GOL is best placed to identify and champion techniques that can make a difference.”

The minister’s speech was followed by presentations from Jeremy Crook, director of the Black Training and Enterprise Group and a member of GOL’s BME, Refugee and Faith Advisory Group (BMERF), Darra Singh, chief executive of Ealing Council and Shelagh Prosser, head of DCLG's (formerly ODPM) Diversity and Equality Unit.

The speakers praised GOL’s attitude towards race quality exemplified in its Strategy. Jeremy Crook welcomed the Strategy, saying:

“I think the Race Equality Strategy statement sends out a clear message to everyone within GOL and outside that this issue is taken seriously and extra effort is now being made to show improved outcomes.”


The delivery of the Strategy will be overseen by both GOL’s external BMERF Group and an Internal Race Reference Group who will oversee progress within the organisation. A further event is planned in 2007 when a report will be made on the progress of the Strategy.

The Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 puts most public authorities under a positive duty to promote race equality. In practice this should make race equality a central part of the way an organisation works, by improving standards in the delivery of public services through policy making and in employment practice. Although GOL is not a listed authority it is keen to ensure that it works within the spirit of the Act and improves outcomes for London’s BME, refugee and faith communities. The Race Equality Strategy sets out how GOL will do this and how progress will be measured.

Further information and a copy of the strategy is available by contacting the Neighbourhood Renewal and Community Cohesion Team on 020 7217 3038