Dotun's law

The multi-media broadcaster and entrepreneur Dotun Adebayo, (above) will, along with many Black people up and down the country be applauding the Education Secretary, Michael Gove’s decision to change the law that would allow Head teachers to sack BNP teachers.

In doing so, Gove  upholds a central promise Prime Minister David Cameron made to the Black community during the General election campaign.

It was on  a bleak night in March when the would-be Prime Minister held a rally in Peckham, London to have a ‘conversation with the Black community’.

He wasn’t, however, expecting the full force of Dotun Adebayo: Face to face, Dotun passionately explained to Cameron the sacrifices he, like many others make for their children; few holidays, no new clothes, old cars, etc.

All that and more he, argued he is prepared to do. But, he added he could not accept a card carrying member of the British National Party teaching any Black child, much less his beloved daughters.

Man to man Adebayo implored Cameron; “would you want your children taught by someone who despised them for no other reason than the colour of their skin”?

Cameron answered instinctively, honestly, without pause, “No I wouldn’t. And neither should you. I don’t believe that membership of the BNP is compatible with being a teacher.

“If I’m Prime Minister I will change the law to allow Head Teachers to sack members of the BNP. They should not be allowed to teach our children”.

It was a bold unscripted statement, and yet five months into a new Government, it looks like Cameron will keep his promise to Dotun and the Black community.

Writing in the Guardian the Education secretary Michael Gove reiterated Cameron’s word verbatim stating,  

“I don't believe thatmembership of the BNP is compatible with being a teacher. One of the things I plan to do is to allow head teachers and governing bodies the powers and confidence to be able to dismiss teachers engaging in extremist activity”, adding,

"I would extend that to membership of other groups which have an extremist tenor. I cannot see how membership of the British National party can co-exist with shaping young minds."

It is sad that we almost expect that our political leaders may not keep their word, particularly during an election campaign.

In this instance it is doubly refreshing. First, the Prime Minister has kept his word. Second, this dramatic change was inspired by a Black man - Dotun Adebayo.

When this piece of legislation comes to pass, it should be known as Dotun’s Law.

Simon Woolley