Benefits of Business Diversity

Over a year ago the Guardian reported that BME youth unemployment had risen almost 50% in five years according to data from the House of Commons Library. Historically BME unemployment rates have always been higher than the rate of White unemployment. But diversity has been proven to have a positive effect on business.

In a meeting with government ministers last Tuesday, 8 March, Business Secretary Sajid Javid called on businesses to do more for BME workers who need better access to the labour market. The meeting is the first of a new Ministerial Taskforce part of the government’s BME 2020 plan to increase BME university students, employment, and apprenticeships all by 20%.

Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith said:

We need to remove the barriers that for so long have restricted BME talent from reaching the most senior levels in business. These actions will deliver long-term economic benefits for the UK.”

The Office for National Statistics shows that the annual BME employment rate was 62.7%, for people of Pakistani or Bangladeshi origin, 55%, while White employment is at 75.4%. The ministers are working to tackle these employment discrepancies which show the unacceptable inadequacy of BME employment rates.

Employment Minister Priti Patel said:

The UK employment rate for BME groups is currently the highest since records began 15 years ago.” But this progress is not enough and it is important that the government take steps to create change within the labour market.”

As long as employment is unequal, the BME community in the UK will not receive the same chances for advancement, and businesses in the UK will suffer without the added benefits diversity provides.

Secretary Javid said:

This is why I am determined to ensure this new Ministerial Taskforce will drive positive change to support BME workers to find the opportunities they need to fulfil their potential.”

Mary Schlichte