The Equality Act, a cornerstone of Britain's equality and diversity framework, is facing an unprecedented threat with the Conservative Party's pledge to repeal the public sector equality duty. This move, championed by Secretary of State for Business and Trade Kemi Badenoch, seeks to eradicate 'identity politics' from the public sector and has sent shockwaves through communities that have long championed equal rights.
For 14 years, successive Conservative governments have left unchanged the Labour-introduced legislation, which obliges state institutions to actively promote equality of opportunity and eliminate discrimination. However, Ms Badenoch's recent announcement signifies a marked shift in Conservative policy, as she hopes the private sector will follow suit in addressing what she terms 'this problem too'. This move is being driven by increasing pressure from within the Conservative Party and a broader right-wing movement that has gained momentum since the Brexit referendum in 2016.
Reform UK, under Nigel Farage's leadership, is amplifying similar sentiments. In a recent policy statement, Mr Farage claimed 'Britain is a two-tier state – against white people' and that 'Anti-whiteness is institutionalised into every aspect of public life'. His party has pledged to counter this perceived injustice if elected, employing tactics described as confrontational and divisive, echoing those seen in US politics.
Public opinion research suggests, however, that the support for this backlash against multiculturalism and diversity may be limited. A recent survey revealed only 17% of respondents 'strongly agree' that 'the growth in the Muslim population poses a foundational threat to UK culture', a core concern driving some campaigners. Political scientists Laura Serra and Maria Grasso noted last year that UK sociocultural values have been shifting towards social liberalism, primarily driven by generational replacement.
The Labour Party, under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership, has taken a more cautious approach, addressing grievances driving the backlash while implementing tougher immigration policies. While Sir Keir has spoken in favour of 'our beautiful, tolerant, diverse country', his party's strategy has been characterised by intermittent challenges to the anti-diversity narrative rather than a sustained counter-campaign. This approach is now under scrutiny as the political discourse continues to shift rightwards.