UK MPs call for Asian English and Black English census categories
A cross-party group of British MPs has tabled legislation in parliament proposing that the next census include Asian English and Black English ethnic identity options.
A cross-party group of British MPs has backed legislation proposing that the next census allow people to identify as Asian English or Black English. Liberal Democrat MP Josh Babarinde introduced the bill in the Commons on Tuesday.
In the 2021 census in England, English ethnicity was offered only under the white category, leaving minorities with options like Asian British or Black British. In contrast, censuses in Wales and Scotland offer Welsh and Scottish options. Babarinde argued that Englishness should not be restricted by skin colour.
Supporters, including Labour's David Lammy and Conservative Sir James Cleverly, said the reform would reflect modern multicultural Britain. The change would allow hundreds of thousands of British-born ethnic minority citizens to officially declare their English identity.
Source: BBC News
