Children to be taught about colonialism and British Empire under Labour government

25 November 2019, 22:45

Children would be taught about colonialism and the role of the British Empire as part of the national curriculum under a Labour government.

The party’s race and faith manifesto also pledges to make businesses report on the pay gap faced by black, Asian and minority ethnic groups (Bame) staff in order to stamp out discriminatory pay.

An "emancipation educational trust" would also be formed "to ensure historical injustice, colonialism and role of the British empire is taught in the national curriculum".

The trust would also educate on migration and how to address the legacy of slavery and teach how it "interrupted a rich and powerful black history".

Jeremy Corbyn will launch the manifesto in Tottenham, north London, on Tuesday.

Other proposals include establishing a race equality unit in the Treasury to review spending announcements for their impact on Bame communities and ending "rip-off" charges for passports, visas and tests from the Home Office.

Shadow women and equalities secretary Dawn Butler, who will launch the manifesto alongside the leader, said: "Only by acknowledging the historical injustices faced by our communities can we work towards a better future that is prosperous for all, that isn't blighted by austerity and the politics of fear."

Ahead of his speech at the Bernie Grant Arts Centre, Mr Corbyn said: "Labour is the party of equality and human rights. Our race and faith manifesto presents our unshakeable commitment to challenge the inequalities and discrimination that has faced too many communities.

"Whatever your background, wherever you are from, whatever your faith or religious belief, you should have the chance to use your talents to fulfil your potential. Labour will tackle head on the barriers that have unfairly held back so many people and communities."

Conservative Home Secretary Priti Patel said not charging for visa and immigration services would cost more than £1.5 billion.

"It's staggering that Corbyn's Labour see fit to lecture people about race and faith while they are investigated by the Equality and Human Rights Commission for the rampant anti-Semitism in their ranks," she added.

National Education Union (NEU) joint general secretary Dr Mary Bousted welcomed Labour's "set of joined-up proposals to proactively tackle racism".

"The NEU welcomes the proposal for a new emancipation educational trust. All young people benefit from learning about how human rights were won and about the struggle against colonialism and racial injustice," she added.