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Equality Impact workshop at Government Office for London

Did you know that Arab states actually import camels, sand, palm trees and oil? You would if you had attended the recent Government Office for London workshop hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry's 'Equality Impact Team'.

DTI's Equality Impact Team was established to ensure that equality in policy making is prioritised and delivered and also aims to increase participation in the business-led "Race for Opportunity" campaign.

The workshop was an opportunity for the DTI's Race Equality scheme to be discussed by representatives from influential London businesses and business support organisations. Over 20 different organisations attended this informative workshop, which generated lively debate about the ways in which government engages with businesses, especially ethnic minority businesses.

As well as exploring the progress and background of the developments in the Equality Impact Team the session also featured a talk by Sharon Batson of the Stakeholder Team of Small Business Services, who updated the group on the progress made by the Ethnic Minority Business Forum.

The Ethnic Minority Business Forum was set up by Patricia Hewitt during her time as Minister for Small Business and has 20 members. It was established to advise Ministers on policies to aid ethnic communities at work and in running their own business.

Also speaking was Robin Hudson from British Trade International, the Government body responsible for helping UK firms secure overseas sales and investments. Robin gave an informed presentation on trading with the Arab states, explaining the cultural differences and false preconceptions that can result in British businesses losing out in this marketplace. He also explained why the trade visits organised by the DTI are an important and easy way to gain access to the different markets, especially in the Gulf area.

Previous research has highlighted that black and minority ethnic businesses are sometimes reluctant to participate in the DTI's Trade Missions, so the workshop was a great opportunity for Government Office for London to help illustrate the value of this work.

Further Information

For more information please contact Eileen Gay, telephone 020 7217 3200.