It is incomprehensible that in 1999 we should have difficulty encouraging and living with, not just tolerating, diversity. Extremists planted nail bombs targeting London's minority groups in Soho, Brixton, and Brick Lane. Three were murdered. More than 110 were injured. Because they are regarded as minority groups, not individuals fully integrated into a diverse British society.
Racism remains an endemic problem.
The death of Stephen Lawrence, as a result of an unprovoked attack by a gang of white youths, is a deep scar on our community. Tolerating black people is not enough. We need to tackle the issue head-on and change our culture. I find it extraordinary that we will have to debate yet again whether Britain should provide its citizens with an equal age of consent. The current law does not protect.