Some immigrants ‘reside parallel lives’, Labour’s so-called ‘cohesion technique’ examine admits
Some people in Britain are living ‘parallel lives’ separate from mainstream customs and culture, Labour’s report into divided society admits.
The cohesion strategy says that a lack of focus on integration has led to the creation of ‘social silos’.
It comes despite Robert Jenrick facing outrage last year for claiming that parts of Birmingham were segregated.
The Government study also says the UK should not be ‘importing or stoking’ ideas or practices that go against traditional values.
‘Respect for religion or culture does not require us to tolerate behaviour which attacks or undermines our fundamental values as a society,’ it warns.
‘Attempts to impose extremist views, restrict the rights of others, or pressure people to conform to an intolerant world view are not acceptable.’
The report says that a ‘key part’ of being a British citizen is tolerance and openness to different views and cultures.
But it goes on: ‘We also rightly expect new arrivals to make an effort to integrate into our shared culture and respect our traditions and uphold our values.’
Labour’s report says that a lack of focus on integration has led to the creation of ‘social silos’
Reform MP Robert Jenrick faced outrage last year for claiming that parts of Birmingham were segregated
While people should be able to take opportunities here without fear of discrimination, ‘newcomers have a responsibility to engage with and embrace what it means to be British’.
‘Insufficient focus on our shared responsibility to support integration has, in some parts of the country, led to the creation of social silos with people living largely separate, parallel lives from mainstream UK customs and culture,’ it states.
The Government says it will now set clear expectations for integration including ‘English language proficiency, and participation in work’ as well as shared identity.
There will be a review of the provision of English language lessons including looking how ‘digital delivery’ can increase the numbers able to speak it.
‘It is impossible for people to engage with others, build relationships, and develop mutual understanding if they lack the words to do so,’ the strategy states.
‘The ability to use and understand our shared language should be a fundamental basis for participating in society and an expectation of those who wish to call the UK home.’
The report blames the last Conservative government for allowing record levels of immigration.
‘For many living in the UK, the changes brought about by this surge in migration have been too much, too quickly and have put huge pressure on services and housing that were already struggling.’
