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Burnham signals backing for more ethnicity options on next census
Andy Burnham has indicated he would support a proposal to add dedicated “Black English” and “Asian English” options to the 2031 census. The idea was introduced by Liberal Democrat MP Josh Babarinde, who argues that people should be able to describe these identities directly rather than rely on a free-text response.
Burnham said he had not seen the bill’s details, and did not confirm whether he would meet Babarinde or whether the government would make time for it to be debated. The 2021 census in England listed “English” under the white ethnic category, while Black English and Asian English could only be entered in a text box; arrangements differed in Wales and Scotland. Private members’ bills rarely become law without government support, and census questions are set in legislation following recommendations from the Office for National Statistics.
In short
- Burnham signals support for new census identity options.
- Babarinde’s proposal would add Black English and Asian English categories.
- The next UK census is due in 2031.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Dedicated options could let people who identify as Black English or Asian English describe themselves more directly and consistently than a free-text box allows. Supporters may see this as recognising identities that combine national belonging with ethnic background, while helping census data better reflect how people understand themselves.
The case against
Adding specific categories could make the census more complex and risk treating broad, varied communities as if they shared a single identity. Critics may argue that existing ethnic categories and free-text responses offer greater flexibility, and that any changes should follow evidence about data quality and clear consultation rather than political advocacy.