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Lib Dem President supports law change to allow ethnic minority shortlists

February 6, 2008 12:00 AM

Simon Hughes MP, President of the Liberal Democrats, today gave his support to the Race Relations (Election Candidates) Bill. This Bill was introduced into the Commons this afternoon by Keith Vaz MP and would allow ethnic minority shortlists for parliament in the future just as all-women shortlists have been allowed in the past.

'It is taking far too long for the elected House of Commons to become diverse and representative in gender, ethnicity and belief. Parliament should now discuss proposals to change the law to allow positive action for a limited period to correct our severe representative deficit.

'It will of course be up to each political party to decide when and how to use such powers if parliament agrees them. Liberal Democrats, like all other parties, need to take more action more quickly. This is a welcome initiative and a possible helpful way forward. It has my strong personal support'.

ENDS

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