We need action to protect BME people from coronavirus, says TUC

Commenting on the announcement today (Tuesday) by Matt Hancock that Kemi Badenoch will lead a further enquiry into why black and minority ethic (BME) people are more at risk of coronavirus, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: 

“The government has known for months that the virus has hit black and ethnic minority people hardest – in their health, jobs and wallets. 

“Rather than just warm words, the government must now show that Black Lives Matter with urgent action to protect BME people at work and to give all key workers the pay rise they have earned. 

“BME communities must have confidence that their health is being taken seriously. 

“The government needs to put in place a funded action plan to tackle the egregious inequality BME people still face, and must be fully transparent about how it is considering BME communities in its policy decisions.”