NUS criticises Blair’s ‘simplistic’ view of Black Britain

Commenting after Tony Blair’s remarks yesterday (12 April 2007) on young Black people, NUS Black Students’ Officer, Ruqayyah Collector said;

“Blair’s comments aren’t just ill-informed they are dangerous. They go against years of research and comment, which show the inextricable link between social deprivation and delinquency. It is telling of a Prime Minister who takes such simplistic views on race that when talking about Black Britons - those who most often inhabit the lower socio economic groups – that he does not mention deprivation once.

“It is plain ignorance to insinuate that the Black community is taking no action about violence in the community. Black people are only too aware of the need to deal with this problem, and are taking major steps to try and rectify this. What is needed, and what the Black community have been calling for, is an increase in resources to tackle youth alienation and disaffection. We are entirely failing to provide support for black-led efforts to tackle the problem.

“The Home Office has already announced it is looking at the possibility of banning membership of gangs and tougher enforcement sentences, amongst other measures. This is entirely the wrong focus, treating the symptoms and ignoring the root cause.

"The Prime Minister’s comments coming only three weeks before the elections where the fascists are standing record number of candidates, will only aid the BNP by strengthening racial stereotypes and prejudice.”

For more information or to speak to Ruqayyah Collector contact the NUS press office on 07966102363 or jenna.Khalfan@nus.org.uk