Stationery & Gifts Brand says BEKIND As Part of Anti-Bullying Campaign

CHILDREN across Yorkshire and the Humber are once again being encouraged to be kind ahead of the Diana Award’s Anti-Bullying Week (11-15 November).

This year sees the return of the BEKIND campaign from ITV’s This Morning, encouraging kids to speak out, stand up and be kind, with support from the popular stationery and gifts brand Smiggle.

Kids can show their support for the cause by visiting their local Smiggle store from Thursday 7th November to pick up a free, limited edition Smiggle BEKIND keyring.

Smiggle has produced 100,000 keyrings and these are available for free in all its stores in Yorkshire and the Humber. Anybody who wants to show their support can pick one up and sport it any way they like, be it on their set of keys, backpack or lunchbox.

Throughout Anti-Bullying Week, celebrities and hosts on This Morning will also be showing their support with the Smiggle BEKIND keyrings.

John Cheston, Managing Director of Smiggle, said: “We are proud to be working with This Morning for a second time on the very important BEKIND campaign. We want to help empower all of our fans to be able to speak out if they are being bullied themselves, stand up for those who are being bullied and always choose kindness.

“As the place where a smile meets a giggle, the health and happiness of our fans is incredibly important to us and so it was easy to decide to support this campaign again.”

Philip Schofield said: “Our BEKIND initiative is one of the This Morning campaigns of which I am most proud. Educating children to use social media kindly is vital for all parents, carers, schools and beyond. Here at This Morning we hope we can play our part to help too.”

Holly Willoughby added: “With young children myself, I understand how important it is to talk openly about the subject of bullying. This Morning’s BEKIND initiative has helped many many children across the UK and I’m so pleased we’re working with Smiggle for a second time this Anti-Bullying Week.”

Dr. Ranj said: “I’m proud to support ITV and Smiggle’s anti-bullying campaign this Anti-Bullying Week. Our new keyrings will act as a great daily reminder for each of us to do our very best to be kind every day.”

This Morning Editor Martin Frizell said: “Sadly, we know that being bullied as a child can have long lasting effects into adulthood and so it is vital that all kids are armed with the tools they need to discuss bullying. We’re thrilled to once again be partnering with Smiggle this Anti-Bullying Week to launch 100,000 free BEKIND keyring in stores.”

People taking part in the campaign are being encouraged to upload photographs of their free Smiggle keyrings to social media throughout the week to show their support, using the hashtag #BEKIND.

To find out more about Smiggle and where you can pick up a free band to show your support visit smiggle.co.uk/bekind

Celebrities Help Raise Vital Funds for Children’s Charity During Diwali Celebrations

For most people celebrating Diwali it’s a time for fun with family, presents and delicious food but for the vulnerable children Barnardo’s supports it can be a challenging time.

On Tuesday 5 November, guests enjoyed a dinner designed by Masterchef 2018 semi-finalist and Barnardo’s supporter Nisha Parmar at the Victorian Bath House, London, to raise vital funds for the charity.

During the event, which celebrated the festival of lights with a prayer, spectacular fire show and Bollywood dance performances, guests were also invited to light a diya for all the vulnerable children across the world.

A number of the charity’s celebrity Ambassadors and supporters attended, including TV presenters Sonali Shah and Anila Chowdhry, and actors Nina Wadia and Ameet Chana.

One of the young people supported by Barnardo’s is 19-year-old Neha, a young carer from Leicester, who looks after her parents and her two younger siblings. As well as managing the household, she is also studying for a degree in Biomedical Sciences. She said, “Trying to juggle everything on a normal day is difficult.

On special occasions like Diwali, it’s even harder as we have loads of guests who visit us and I have to cook a lot of food for everyone and serve them all tea, coffee and snacks.

“I do feel blessed that I am able to help my family and spend time with them, but it can get overwhelming and sometimes I wish could enjoy Diwali like everyone else instead of worrying about how I will cope.”

Since joining Barnardo’s Carefree service in Leicestershire, Neha’s support worker has helped her in various ways including liaising with her college, applying for grants to allow her to buy a laptop and take driving lessons, and offering her a safe space to talk about her concerns.

Barnardo’s CEO Javed Khan said, “For children supported by Barnardo’s, celebrations like Diwali can be a difficult time. Children with mental health problems, those caring for a family relative and children in care are facing huge challenges all year round and some may also feel cut off from their culture and background. It’s vital that agencies, charities and
local communities come together to support young people to achieve a positive future.”

Barnardo’s Ambassador actor Nina Wadia said,“There are thousands of children and young people in the UK who are struggling with a host of issues ranging from mental health, to abuse to being in care. It is a great honour to be here today to not only celebrate Diwali, but to show my support for Barnardo’s, who provide critical support and services to
children in the UK.”

Barnardo’s Ambassador and TV presenter Sonali Shah said,“Diwali is a time for celebration and reflection. Tonight’s event has given us the opportunity to celebrate as well as understand and reflect on the importance of believing in children and giving them the support they need to thrive.”

Cricket World Cup 2019, zero to hero Stokes helps England win home world cup

By AYYAZ MALIK

After 48 games of high quality and high drama, fittingly the men’s cricket world cup would end in a tense, exciting and high-quality finale. The two teams contesting that final (England and New Zealand), one would finally reach the cricketing world summit after both sides have come so close yet so far since the tournament began way back in 1975.

Coming into this final, both hosts England and runners up of the 2015 World Cup New Zealand defeated arguably the two best sides in the tournament in defending champions Australia and join favourites before the tournament started India.

How they won their semi-finals were in very contrasting fashion. The Kiwis New Zealand who were looking to go one better this time after losing to arch-rivals Australia in 2015, edged out Virat Kohli’s India in what was one of the modern classics in world cup history.

After initially playing on Tuesday, rain would crucially intervene, which meant the two sides would have to use the allocated reserve day. Chasing what seemed just 240 to reach the final like they did in 2011, but this is sport and sport doesn’t really play by the rules, none of this, India should win because they’re world number two, rather the laws of sports rule as they please.

That’s how it turned out here as, Kohli, Rohit Sharma and co failed to chase down their target and were unceremoniously dumped out at the semi-final stage. For New Zealand a chance for redemption awaited in the final, but who would it be facing them? Would it be Australia for a round two world cup final revenge match or would it be one of the two sides never to have tasted world supremacy England.

It turned out to be the latter matchup instead of the former after England defeated their old enemy Australia at a canter with an eight-wicket win. So to Lords, this World cup final would go to. World number one England after embarrassingly being dumped out in the group stages in 2015 were looking to complete the full circle and win the world cup as hosts.

In their way were New Zealand, who it could be argued are a resemblance in terms of courage and character of the Pakistan world cup winning team of 1992. Both teams have this “fight like tigers’ mentality and both are marshalled by an excellent leader in Kane Williamson and Imran Khan.

England though have an exceptional leader of their own, Middlesex batsmen, Eoin Morgan, Morgan was newly appointed to the role when the 2015 world cup happened, so naturally was learning about his team and himself as a leader it most definitely can be argued.   

As admirable as The Three Lions’ work was in building a team capable of competing in the latter stages of the world cup, that work bottled down to 100 overs of cricket. Winning the toss in this final was going to be crucial and it would the visiting side New Zealand who would win what many believed to be a crucial toss to win due to the state of the pitch.

New Zealand after finding scoring hard to come by were able to post 241-8 in their 50 overs with Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls both impressing with the bat on an increasingly difficult surface with scores of 47 and 55 respectively.

England to their credit bowled admirably, with Liam Plunkett and Chris Woakes taking three wickets apiece. After posting 241-8, New Zealand was looking to the inspiration of star bowler Trent Boult to help the 2015 runners-up make early inroads into the England batting line-up.

The Kiwi’s would get an early breakthrough thanks to Matt Henry, who removed semi-final hero Jason Roy early. At that point, that appeared to be a “minor’ set back, but when wickets fell at regular intervals it was left to Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes to win the game for hosts England.

Both men went about their task admirably to help their team get over the line, but when vice-captain Buttler fell for a near run a ball 59, New Zealand could sense blood and the world cup trophy.

Ben Stokes, on the other hand, decided that he single-handedly was going to help his country to world cup glory, arguably eager to exercise the demons of that fateful night of 2016 . The Durham all-rounder went about his task admirably and despite riding his look twice (benefitting from overthrows, due to the ball hitting his helmet and being caught after the fielder hit the boundary cushion), Stokes helped his side secure a tie. Even that looking highly unlikely after the home side England needing 27 from 15 balls on a tricky pitch.

With the game tied, England and New Zealand were going to need to contest a super over, a one-over bowling shoot out between the two sides to determine who can score more runs in one over. England would bat first and they opted to send out Stokes and Buttler.

Such a move seemed to be the right choice, but New Zealand had a trick up their sleeve too as they chose star man Boult to bowl the super over. 15 runs would come off the over with England able to hit two fours, which would prove to be crucial.

New Zealand who were looking to chase 16 runs in an over, decided to send out Martin Guptill and Jimmy Neesham to face the super over, to be bowled by Joffra Archer, England’s leading wicket-taker in this world cup. Such a move could have backfired, but England captain Morgan to his credit was justified in his choice as Archer conceded 15 runs off his over, which wasn’t enough, thus meaning England have become the cricket world cup 2019 world champions.

This final was one of the best finals ever to be contested in the history of world cups. What a final and what a fitting way to end international cricket’s most prestigious tournament.

Poet Hussain Manawer Receives Doctorate of Arts at Oxford Brookes University

Poet Hussain Manawer (28) received a Doctorate of Arts from one of UK’s leading modern universities Oxford Brookes University last week Friday in Oxford. Presented by the university’s Board of Governors, Hussain joined the faculty of English languages PHD students as he accepted the highly distinguished award.

Following his Honorary Fellowship from the prestigious King’s College London last year, Hussain spoke about what it meant to him to receive a doctorate, “I struggled immensely with education, my family had to pay for extra tuition for me (with money they didn’t have) for me to really understand what I was being taught. So becoming a Doctorate of the Arts and being recognized for my work in this field is a truly remarkable feeling for me and it is a landmark moment in my life. I still don’t know fractions and certain times-tables but what I do know is true feeling, emotion and the power of the English language.”

Professor Alistair Fitt, Vice Chancellor at Oxford Brookes University said, “It is a tremendous honour to announce our inspiring honorary graduates for this month’s graduation ceremonies. We choose our Honorary Graduates very carefully and ensure their values and work aligns closely with the University. The conferment of the degree allows Oxford Brookes to acknowledge those we admire and respect and we look forward to celebrating this at events, which are a real highlight of the academic year.”

Tickets for Manawer Hussain’s show are now on sale

Fresh from opening Soccer Aid for Unicef at Chelsea Football Club’s Stamford Bridge stadium and ahead of performing at UK’s biggest festival, Glastonbury this coming weekend, tickets for Hussain’s debut tour, The Show Must Go On are on sale at LiveNation.co.uk/Artist/Hussain-Manawer-Tickets. Join the conversation: #HussainManawer @HussainManawer @HussainsHouse @Hussains_House

Imam Questioner From BBC Live Debate Suspended by Employers

By GRAHAME ANDERSON

An imam from Gloucester has been suspended from his job as a primary school deputy head following his appearance on the BBC’s Conservative leadership debate. Abdullah Patel was allowed to question the Tory candidates during last Tuesdays now controversial live debate, asking Boris Johnson if his remarks on Islam “had consequences.”

Boris Johnson

Social Media Controversy

A Twitter account previously de-activated belonging to the  25-year-old however, revealed a series of allegedly ​anti-Semitic tweets. They include a post claiming the abuse of Jews was being “abused by the Right” to further a political agenda. In another,  he made the suggestion the state of Israel should be moved to the USA, called Gaza, the modern day Auschwitz, claiming some women assaulted by men are partially to blame.

Mr Patel had earlier also posted: “Every Political figure on the Zionist’s payroll is scaring the world about Corbyn. They don’t like him. He seems best suited to tackle them!”

Asian Sunday has learned the imam does not dispute he posted the tweets a few years ago. It’s believed he’s also previously worked closely with Jewish organisations. During this time he visited several synagogues, and posted other messages supporting Jewish communities.

He accepts his comments are controversial but believes there is a distinction between criticism of Israel and anti-Semitism, which he has reportedly condemned on Twitter. He was unavailable for comment.

Debate Question

After the televised debate he wrote: “As an imam, I’m exposed to many incidents which happen in my community, and of course, as a visible Muslim, I also witness it first hand. I have received numerous incident reports of blatant racism against members of my community, from spitting and swearing at Muslim women … to asking students coming to my mosque if they had bombs in their bags.”

He added: “What I got as a response was nothing short of disappointing and deluded. Boris Johnson forgot my name, spoke about his Great grandfather and about Iran.”

Mr Johnson had of course previously compared veiled Muslim women to “letter boxes. Mr Patel’s question prompted a response from candidates around allegations of Islamophobia in the Conservative Party.

School Reaction

In a statement posted on the Al-Ashraf Primary school’s website the following day, Yakub Patel, chair of the Al-Madani Educational Trust, said: “Following some of the comments attributed to Mr Patel in the media this morning, the trust has decided to suspend him from all school duties with immediate effect until a full investigation is carried out. The school and trust do not share the views attributed to him.”

BBC Defence

In the BBC’s defence The Live Political Programmes Editor, Rob Burley took to social media posting:  “1) For those wondering how, given his tweets, Abudullah Patel made it onto the debate last night. The answer: his Twitter account had been deactivated, his tweets could not be read and his account did not exist when searched for. . .

“2) It was AFTER the show that Mr Patel reactivated his account revealing his tweets. We wouldn’t have put him on the programme if these were public before broadcast but they were not. We also carried out a number of other routine checks which didn’t uncover anything untoward. Had we been aware of the views he expressed there, he would not have been selected.”

BBC presenter Nicky Campbell, who had Patel on his Radio 5 Live breakfast show the following morning said the imam had made “extremely disturbing” remarks on Twitter. Mr Campbell added he was “sorry” the broadcaster had not checked beforehand.

As an organisation the BBC has claimed they carried out background research into the online and social media profiles of all the questioners. Mr Patel’s tweets weren’t visible during this period.

Home Secretary Mr Javid later added: “Mr Patel should “practise what he preaches” and that words “do indeed have consequences”.

Home Secretary Mr Javid

Adding To The Furore

To make matters worse another questioner, employment solicitor Aman Thackar, the Labour Party Southwark council candidate in 2018, has also been suspended by his employers law firm Leigh Day, following controversial historic social media comments.

On the programme Mr Thakar questioned if the candidates had a democratic mandate to  become Prime Minister. Afterwards, a post the former Labour HQ legal assistant made on Twitter back in  February was discovered. It said: ‘Hitler’s abuse of the term nationalism is, to me, a nationalist, the most harmful part of his legacy.’ It sparked an outrage at the time from many claiming the biggest outrage was the killing of more than six million Jews.

The BBC has revealed it knew Mr Thakar had worked for the Labour Party but didn’t offer an explanation as to why viewers weren’t told.

Conservative Dismay

Julian Knight, a Conservative member of the culture select committee, said: ‘People look up to the BBC but the format and editorial failings were such that they actually produced a much worse debate than Channel 4.”

A request to replace high stools with lecterns on set was turned down by producers. On leaving the studio a campaign source revealed the discovery of a line of lecterns that could have been used.

The leadership hopefuls complained the stools made them look like an ageing boy band, and weren’t altogether happy with presenter Emily Maitliss who waded into exchanges during the hour long programme.

Another proposed debate in the style of Question Time, between the final two candidates supervised by Fiona Bruce is in doubt.

 

 

House of Commons Launches Programme to Find Next Generation of BAME Leaders

The House of Commons has committed to increasing the representation of BAME (Black, Asian and Ethnic-Minority) people within its workforce and in Parliament more widely. Through a comprehensive Diversity and Inclusion Strategy it aims to tackle under-representation at senior levels in the House of Commons by 2022.

As part of the strategy, it has committed to back the Pathway to Success Leadership and Development programme pilot, a ground-breaking new initiative working to equip BAME individuals with the tools and knowledge required to stand for political office. Participants will be selected based on their proven leadership skills and will undertake a week of intensive coaching to build their confidence and familiarity with political settings.

The programme aims to send out the message that diverse leadership is essential in politics and civil society, while creating a thriving parliamentary democracy.

Alumni Shadow Minister for the Treasury Clive Lewis MP

Run by the UK Parliament and Operation Black Vote (OBV) in collaboration with Oxford University’s Magdalen College and Blavatnik School of Government and  Lloyds Banking Group, the programme will offer participants first-hand experience of Parliament and an enhanced understanding of the political landscape, as well as the skills take their first step towards a career in frontline politics.

OBV alumni Shadow Minister for the Treasury Clive Lewis MP said: “What a fantastic partnership OBV has assembled. Having had the privilege to be on an OBV programme myself, I know how vital their work is in ensuring people from BAME backgrounds are equipped with the same tools and knowledge to stand for political office. There are still too many institutional barriers that continue to lock out talent, and this work will equip our next generation of leaders from BAME communities to fulfil their true leadership potential and enhance our local and national institutions.”

Participants will stay in Magdalen College, Oxford for a week and will take a trip to London to visit the Houses of Parliament. The Blavatnik School of Government has developed a comprehensive programme to build an in-depth understanding of major political, civic and business ideas through discussion, group activities and input sessions, including:

  • Political philosophy, law and ethics
  • Understanding, making and driving policy
  • Understanding Parliament
  • The media and message framing
  • Understanding communities
  • Understanding the business world
  • The power of the collective and networks
  • Practical implementation
  • The power of storytelling
  • Ethics and decision-making

Members of Parliament across all parties will be involved to act as panel members, alongside contributors from the Civil Service, business and even the sporting world who can share their experiences, journeys and insights.

For more information about the Pathway to Success Leadership Development Programme and for further information on how to apply, click here.

Local community reacts to New Zealand mosque attacks

For many of us waking up to the horrific news of the ‘terrorist attack’ on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand during Friday prayers has been deeply saddening.

Many from across Bradford district have reacted to the deadly attacks which has killed 49 and left many seriously injured.

Bradford East MP Imran Hussain said:

“I condemn this horrific, sickening and cowardly terror attack on Muslim worshippers in a place of faith, and my thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences go out to all of those who are grieving in New Zealand following this tragic loss of life.

“As a society, we will mourn and we will hurt, but we will only emerge stronger. Attempts at division will leave us strengthened and united in knowing that those who use terror to kill, wound and maim innocent people to try and drive a wedge between communities cannot, and will not ever, win.

“As we grieve, we must also not forget the stories of heroism that are emerging already, with people running into danger to save the lives of others without regard for their own. Remember their names, not those of the cowards who carried out this attack.”

MP for Bradford West, Naz Shah, has called for communities, particularly those attending jummah (Friday) prayers to ‘be vigilant, be safe, be strong and remain united’

She informed her social media followers that she has spoken to the Home Secretary Sajid Javid who has reassured her that local police will be speaking to the local Muslim Community particularly around #Jummah later today, and that the Home Secretary agreed with her that “they will fight all forms of terror and never let terrorists divide our communities. Never.”

West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns Williamson OBE offered his thoughts and prayers with all those affected by this senseless act in New Zealand.  “Standing together with New Zealand Police colleagues in the face of adversity and all communities here in West Yorkshire” He said

The New Zealand Prime Minister has declared the violent attack as an act of terror. She said: “What has happened in Christchurch is an extraordinary act of unprecedented violence. It has no place in New Zealand. Many of those affected will be members of our migrant communities – New Zealand is their home – they are us.”

Our thoughts and prayers with those affected

Shortlist announced for Asian Women of Achievement Awards 2019

The Asian Women of Achievement Awards (AWA), in association with NatWest, has announced the shortlist of the 2019 awards.

From a composer, comedian and cardiologist to CEOs of big businesses, a GB wheelchair basketball player and a professor whose groundbreaking work has uncovered a new universal influenza vaccine, the nominees are a shining example of the trailblazing work of Asian women in Britain today.

The awards, now in their 20th year, celebrate the incredible achievements of Asian women and the contribution they make, both professionally and in their communities, across a vast range of industries and professions, from science, medicine and technology to sport, business and charity work.

The Asian Women of Achievement Awards, founded by Pinky Lilani CBE DL in 1999, celebrates multicultural Britain and the contribution of diverse cultures and talents to UK society. We put on a platform, the phenomenal Asian women across the UK and across industries, who are making a valuable and important contribution to British life. The awards play a key role in redefining the contribution of Asian women; and informing a new, positive, pro-diversity debate.

ASIAN WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT Categories 2019

Arts & Culture, Business, Entrepreneur, Media, Professions, Public Service, Real Estate Infrastructure and Construction, Social and Humanitarian, Sport, Technology and Digital, Young Achiever

You can view the full shortlist here.

A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE

The awards have led to the creation of numerous initiatives and projects designed to help women and improve opportunities for the next generation. The awards are not simply a night of recognition but a community and a programme of initiatives that offer the opportunity for candidates to meet like-minded women and build their networks.

Our sister initiative, the Women of the Future Programme, enables opportunities through our Women of the Future Network and Women of the Future Ambassadors Programme.

WHAT OUR CANDIDATES SAY

Pooja Saini

“When I won the AWA award I remembered feeling overwhelmed by the whole thing and honoured that my work was now being recognised. The respect I also received from my family and community was encouraging and I know that I have had an influence on other South Asian female colleagues’ and family members to work towards winning awards. The response I have had within all areas of my life has been unbelievable, and this has given me even more confidence and motivation to succeed and aim for higher positions within my current work organisation.” Dr Pooja Saini, AWA Public Service Winner 2018

 

Ambassadors Programme
“This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Asian Women of Achievement Awards. It is incredibly humbling to consider how far these awards have come since the inaugural event in 1999. Twenty years on, and we are able to showcase women working across a vast range of professions and all with unique challenges and stories of success to share. Never has it been more important for us to celebrate this talent, to keep the spotlight firmly on the Diversity & Inclusion agenda and to open our hearts and minds to new ideas, new ways of looking at the world and new ways to collaborate.” Pinky Lilani CBE DL, Chair and Founder, Asian Women of Achievement Awards

“This year we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Asian Women of Achievement Awards and NatWest is proud to sponsor these Awards for the eighth consecutive year. As always, the shortlist this year showcases the incredible contribution that Asian women are making in the UK today. My congratulations to all those that have been shortlisted, they are fantastic role models already achieving tremendous success in their fields.” Les Matheson, Chief Executive, Personal Banking, RBS and NatWest

Racially abused vet calls for more diversity

By GRAHAME ANDERSON

A British farm vet with an Asian background who’s suffered racist abuse has called for the agricultural and veterinary professions to attract more people from ethnic minorities.

Royal Agricultural University lecturer, Navaratnam Partheeban has responded both in the light of his own experiences and after receiving hate mail following an article published in Farmers Weekly. His column highlighted a number of surprising and negative outcomes involving ethnic diversity in and around the veterinary and agricultural professions.

Honest Journalism

Navaratnam Partheeban

In his piece the Senior Lecturer in Livestock Production also known as ‘Theeb’ pointed out: “After meeting someone for the first time, as part of the initial conversation, the question “Where are you from?” often pops up. My answer is usually “Scotland”, although sometimes I say “the UK” when abroad. This is usually enough for most people, but then I sometimes get: “But where are you really from?”

“The main difference between me and 86 per cent of the UK is my skin colour. So the assumption of the questioner is that I must be from somewhere else because of how I look. I was born in Scotland, have a British passport and have lived here all my life, so why am I suddenly from somewhere else?

Negative Experiences

“My experiences include having had a farmer refuse to have me on farm based on my skin colour, hearing a student describe people from another ethnicity in a defamatory way, and hearing qualified vets use racist terminology in conversation. Excuses such as “but I have a black friend” or “but I have been to India” have been used as justifications for certain people’s attitudes.

“A majority of farmers live in rural communities and so do not always have the opportunity to meet and talk to people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (Bame) backgrounds. Some views and opinions are therefore obtained from the media, or listening to people with outdated views. I understand this, but we have to try and break down these barriers and ideas.

“The UK is a small place with a rich mix of people. With labour leaving the farming community, we need to encourage people of all backgrounds to see farming as a viable option for employment. The only way to do this is to make farming a career that is both welcoming and understanding. This will not happen overnight, but needs to start somewhere.”

Hateful Response

The article prompted a hateful response in the mail from an anonymous writer police are still trying to trace under the malicious communications act.

The abhorrent letter said: ‘Re: your article in Farmers Weekly. This country is full of you moronic bastards. If you don’t like it, go back to your parents’ world.

“You may think you are British but there never has been a black Englishman and there never will be. ‘If a dog is born in a stable it does not mean it becomes a horse. You’re black. Get over it!’

Key Support

His treatment was highlighted on BBC Radio 4’s early morning farming slot and the Asian Network drawing support from a number of key areas. Labour MP for West Bromwich East Tom Watson commented on twitter: “I don’t know him but I’d like to meet him one day and learn about farming from him. And I’d really like people to show him solidarity.”

Important Facts

Asian Sunday has learned There are 3,947 vets practices employing more than 20,000 vets  in the UK according to figures released in 2017. A total of five per cent of British vets have an Asian background.

A 2017 Policy Exchange Forum Poll in the Independent revealed, farming is 98.6 per cent white, while a survey of the veterinary profession undertaken by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons four years ago, found only three per cent identified themselves as from an ethnic minority.

Lack Of Diversity

Royal Veterinary College Student Union President, Gorprit Singh told me: “I think part of the issue for the lack of diversity is the difference in the value of the vet career (and degree) in different cultures. I can’t speak for the entire Asian community obviously, but generally speaking in my community, the value of a doctor is much higher than that of a vet.

“As there are very few vets from the Afghan-Indian Sikh Community, students really struggle to find someone to talk to from the field who is from a similar cultural background.

“I personally have not experienced racism during my training, nor have I heard any stories to say otherwise. Being elected SU President for this year gives me hope that diversity will surely only improve in the industry.”

Campaign Support

Professor Joanna Price, Vice-Chancellor of the Royal Agricultural University added: “We are proud of our senior lecturer Navaratnam Partheeban’s campaigning work against prejudice in all its forms and he has our complete support. The abhorrent views in the letter he courageously shared highlight the need for universities, colleges, schools, industry, policy-makers and other organisations to work together to fight ignorance and prejudice with education and to promote diversity and tolerance.”

 

Nine men have been sentenced to a total of more than 132 years over multiple child sexual exploitation offences

Nine men who were found guilty of a range of sexual offences against two young and vulnerable victims have been sentenced to a total of more than 132 years today.

The abuse began at the hands of Basharat Khaliq, 38, in 2008 when both girls were aged only 14 and had recently been placed in a children’s home run by Bradford Metropolitan District Council.  He went on to exploit one of the victims for a further three years.

Meanwhile the other victim was groomed and exploited by numerous men; including the other eight defendants who have been convicted today.  She was given alcohol and drugs which led to addiction and she was passed from one man to another.

The jury at Bradford Crown Court heard the abuse of these vulnerable victims continued after they left the care system and began living independently.

The abuse came to light when one of the victims was interviewed by police in connection with another investigation into child sexual exploitation.

Paula Craven from the CPS said:

“These two girls were deliberately targeted because of their vulnerability. Sadly, the exploitation followed a pattern which is all-too familiar in cases of this kind.

“These victims suffered an appalling catalogue of degrading emotional and sexual abuse which has deprived them of their childhood.

“Sexual exploitation impacts on victims in many different ways. It feeds on vulnerability and eats into trust and feelings of self-worth.  It changes lives forever.

“Their abusers have now been brought to justice and I hope the verdicts delivered today can go some way to helping them go forward with their lives.  Our thoughts remain with them.”

They were sentenced at Bradford Crown Court today (27 February) to a total of 132½  years in prison:

  • Basharat Khaliq – 20 years
  • Saeed Akhtar – 20 years
  • Naveed Aktar – 17 years
  • Parvase Ahmed – 17 years
  • Izar Hussain – 16 years
  • Kieran Harris – 17 years
  • Fahim Iqbal – 7 years
  • Mohammed Usman – 17 years
  • Zeeshan Ali – 18 months