Mayor Sadiq Khan launches advisory board to help tackle inequality

LONDON Mayor Sadiq Khan launched an advisory group today (14) at City Hall to help realise his vision for a "truly inclusive London".

The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Group will be chaired by deputy mayor for social integration, social mobility and community engagement, Debbie Weekes-Bernard.

Its diversity champions will inform the mayor’s approach to driving forward fairness, diversity and equality in the capital.

"London is one of the most diverse and progressive cities in the world," said Weekes-Bernard said, adding, "yet not all of communities are able to access the opportunities that the capital has to offer.

“It is more important than ever that we tackle disadvantage and inequality across our city to ensure that all Londoners, regardless of background, have the opportunity to thrive,” she said.

“This means addressing some tricky, entrenched problems which people sometimes feel they cannot change – reducing child poverty, improving employment practices and removing barriers to educational attainment.

“That is why I’m pleased to bring together experts with a wide range of experience in City Hall today, who have dedicated their working lives to reducing disadvantage and promoting fairness. Working together, we can continue to ensure a focus on fairness, diversity and equality in everything we do.”

The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory group includes social entrepreneur Asma Shah, Founder of Patchwork Foundation Harris Bokhari, and deputy chief executive of Black Training and Enterprise Group Tebussum Rashid among others.