Ethnic political attitudes revealed in survey (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Ethnic political attitudes revealed in survey

9:40am Thursday 9th February 2012 in Bradford By Kathie Griffiths

Results of Britain’s most detailed study ever into the political attitudes and behaviour of ethnic minorities were revealed at a multi-agency workshop in Bradford yesterday.

More than 40 delegates from Bradford Council, mosques, health bodies, schools, the University of Bradford and ethnic group organisations met at Carlisle Business Centre in Manningham yesterday to discuss the findings based on the 2010 general election.

The event was brought to Bradford by Dr Mohammed Ali, chief executive officer of QED-UK, based in the city.

Dr Ali wanted to bring the debate north as part of its work and campaign towards breaking down the barriers faced by immigrant communities.

He invited Professor Anthony Heath from the University of Oxford, who directed the survey, to come to Bradford and share its results – shedding light onto whether some minorities were less likely to vote than others, whether some were less likely to adopt a British identity, or were more dissatisfied with British democracy.

Dr Ali said: “This kind of insight helps us understand the real concerns and divisions ethnic minorities face. It helps us focus our attention on those groups who may be showing signs of alienation or disaffection.”

And Professor Heath added: “Political engagement is, of course, one of the most powerful ways for any citizen to forge change in society or make a difference and this study has given a powerful insight into how well our political system works for ethnic minorities.”