STORY
New reporting has highlighted warnings from minority communities, unions and policy experts that increasingly hostile anti-migrant politics is contributing to a resurgence of racism in Britain. Reuters spoke to people of colour who said recent political rhetoric and high-profile crimes had made them feel less safe.
The issue has become politically sensitive after violent incidents and disorder in Southampton, Belfast and Edinburgh, with some activists and politicians using crime and immigration to frame wider arguments about national identity. Keir Starmer has rejected claims that British institutions are prejudiced against white people and has warned that racist language is returning to public life.
Unions told Reuters that members had reported more racist incidents at work, including in healthcare settings. The report adds to pressure on ministers and opposition parties to avoid language that inflames tension while still addressing public concern about immigration, crime and community safety.