New age of ‘super diverse’ cities arrives

THERE is a new era of “super diversity” with some cities now having more ethnic minorities than whites, the census shows.

Leicester now has 59.1% of its population from ethnic minority groups, a major change from 1991, when they made up just over a quarter. Its Asian population first became well established after 20,000 people settled in the East Midlands manufacturing city after expulsion from Uganda in 1972.

Claudia Webbe, right, the independent MP for Leicester East, said: “This data reinforces the identity of our community. It is what makes Leicester special – we are richer for this vibrant exchange of cultures.”

Riaz Ravat, deputy director of the city’s St Philip’s Centre, said: “Leicester has evolved over many years and now has a global outlook. We should be proud of this.” Minority ethnic people also make up more than half the population in Luton (54.8%) and Birmingham (51.4%).

Claudia Webbe MP is the member of Parliament for Leicester East. You can follow her at www.facebook.com/claudiaforLE and twitter.com/ClaudiaWebbe