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Britain’s equalities watchdog writes to Reform UK after party members were filmed making racist remarks and joking about incest
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has written to Reform UK seeking information about its response to racist and sexual remarks recorded in an ITV undercover investigation. The watchdog is assessing complaints alleging possible breaches of equality law, which could lead to further action.
The year-long investigation showed party councillors and candidates making racist comments about black and Asian people, alongside sexist remarks. Some members left the party after the footage emerged. The EHRC asked what steps Reform is taking to comply with the Equality Act 2010 and said political parties must prevent discrimination and harassment while respecting freedom of expression. Reform said it was confident it had met its legal obligations and that racism had no place in the party.
In short
- The EHRC has asked Reform UK for information.
- Complaints allege possible Equality Act breaches.
- Reform says it has met its obligations.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The EHRC is entitled to examine whether a party has met its legal duty to prevent discrimination and harassment, particularly when recorded remarks by its members raise concerns about the party’s response. A thorough assessment could help protect people from discriminatory treatment and clarify what standards political parties must meet.
The case against
Reform can reasonably argue that being asked for information while complaints are assessed does not establish that the party broke the law, and that it is confident it met its obligations. Any regulatory response should distinguish offensive remarks by individuals from the party’s own conduct, follow evidence and legal standards, and respect freedom of expression.
Explained simply
The Equality and Human Rights Commission is Britain’s watchdog for equality and human rights. The Equality Act 2010 sets rules against discrimination and harassment, including in organisations such as political parties.
Reform UK is a political party whose members include elected councillors and candidates for public office. Parties must consider how they prevent discriminatory conduct, while also respecting the right to express political views.
The watchdog can examine complaints and seek information from a party to assess whether equality law may have been breached. Its assessment can lead to further action, depending on what it finds.
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