Introducing the next generation of Black politicians

Twenty-five Black and minority ethnic individuals will shadow Members of Parliament from the three main political parties, and The Scottish National Party and Plaid Cymru.

Over a six-month period they will assist politicians with their daily work, gain valuable experience of parliamentary politics both at Westminster and in the local constituency and also receive four one-day training sessions, gaining invaluable insights from distinguished political activists and public figures.

The scheme will be launched in the Atlee Suite at Portcullis House on Wednesday 18th December from 11am (11am drinks & arrivals, 11.30 welcome & speeches, 12.00 onwards press interviews and photo-call).

The nation-wide 2002 programme aims to improve the political representation of Black and other minority ethnic communities in local and national politics.

There are twenty-five places: ten Labour, seven Liberal Democrats, six Conservatives, one SNP, and one Plaid Cymru.

All the leaders from the main political parties including The Prime Minister will be directly or indirectly involved in the scheme.

OBV National Co-ordinator Simon Woolley stated: 'There is no doubt that the 25 chosen from a pool of 650 are the next generation of Black politicians. There are lawyers, community activists, students, managers and others who all have a great deal of dynamism and a desire to play a full and positive role within our decision making process. Political parties would be mad not to fast track this talent.'

Beverley Bernard, Acting Chair of the Commission for Racial Equality said: "The CRE is delighted to be working with OBV to provide a platform for talented people to become more active in politics. Ethnic minority communities, and young people in particular, are becoming increasingly disenchanted with our political system. This scheme is part of a process which to begin tackling this problem. I look forward to following the progress of these 25 promising individuals who may well go from shadowing politicians to leading and shaping the UK's political agenda."

Cllr Sonika Nirwal, graduate of the OBV pilot scheme said: 'This scheme will enable other young Black people like me to get a foothold on the ladder into political activism and further their political understanding and progress. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see what politicians do day-to-day, and a window into the party political world and Westminster life.'

Notes to the editors: The Operation Black Vote Shadowing Scheme is the first to specifically target ethnic minorities. The scheme will pair up successful applicants to an MP in the nearby region.