Black vote could keep Tories in oblivion

Mr Duncan Smith who was elected today as new party leader has to capture the centre ground they warned. The black vote would not support a party they felt didn't like them.

Simon Woolley, OBV National Co-ordinator stated that: 'We congratulate Mr Duncan Smith on his victory, he now as leader faces a stark choice between taking his party back to rhetoric and polices of the right-wing bigots that despise any diversity and difference. Or a party that can be visionary and forward looking celebrating the multi-cultural and multi racial dimension of our society in deeds as well as words. Democracy in the UK depends on the black community having another choice other than Labour. The Tories must capture the centre ground, if Labour aren't to take the black vote for granted.'

OBV had written to the two party contenders asking them what steps they would take to address the issues for black communities including black representation.

Lee Jasper, OBV Chair stated: ' There are two things that the new leader can do today to demonstrate his commitment to black communities: the first would be to ensure his party is inclusive and anti-racist in it policies; and secondly, to put in place a plan to turn around the sea of white faces on the opposition benches into something that better resembles the multi-racial nature of the UK in the 21st century. A programme to recruit, retain and promote black talent within the party would be a positive first step.'

Notes to the editor

OBV targeted 100 seats in the 2001 election where the black vote could decide who wins and who loses. OBV hold a fringe at Tory party conference-11/10 -12.00 Opera House Foyer Bar, Wintergardens.