TUC challenges surge in racist abuse following EU vote

The UK has seen a major spike in reports of racist and xenophobic incidents since the referendum, with the National Police Chiefs’ Council reporting a 57 percent increase in hate crime in the days following the referendum. This was on top of the Home Office observing an 18 percent increase in hate crimes in 2014/15, and charities reporting Islamophobic and anti-Semitic incidents more than doubling.

The TUC report Challenging racism after the EU referendum includes a set of immediate actions that government, employers and trade unions can take to challenge and defeat racist behaviour.

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Proposals include closer monitoring of far-right activities, zero-tolerance policies in the workplace, and abolishing employment tribunal fees.

Alongside the report, the TUC is also publishing today a guide with information and practical advice for union reps on combatting racism in the workplace.

Commenting on the report, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:

“Despite progress reducing xenophobia and racism in Britain, we are a long way from eradicating it. And the recent surge in racist incidents since the Brexit vote is deeply disturbing.

“We need to stand up for modern British and trade union values – respect for difference, dignity at work, and a deep opposition to racism and extremism.

“Trade unions have long been a part of the fight against racism, but we can and should do more – as should the government and employers across the UK.”