Politics

Can Britain's new black political elites get the nation back on the "equal rights" track?

Paul Boateng and David Lammy are supreme examples of defying expectations. Their rise to prominence has torn a gaping hole in the old rules of lily-white British politics. They can become leading participants in redefining the principles of New Labour Britain.

But there is a hell of a long way to go before the doors of equality are open to all across the land.

On present performance, no one political party has the answer to a major problem of the 21st century: race and society. Hence, Black communities must construct their own program for beneficial development.

That's why we are publishing a strategy for a Black agenda for action by politicians, academics and lay leaders in the service of Black communities. It emphasises three forward looking ideas.

Workable policies must be advanced to reflect the hopes and unfolding contributions of Black people.

Danger-limiting strategies are needed to counter widespread threats to the survival and growth of the Black Presence in Britain.

Progress-enhancing strategies can help to raise up the aspirations and accomplishments of Black people, especially the young and disaffected.

We hope these articles will spur discussion and debate about Black Progress in Britain in the 21st century.

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