Ouseley Report

The Ouseley Report, dated July 2001, by the former chairman of the Commission for Racial Equality, Herman, Lord Ousely, gave a long-awaited response to race relations in Bradford of West Yorkshire, in Northern England. The report painted a picture of racial segregation and a deep-rooted concern about crime.[1] Its publication coincided with the Bradford 2001 riots, but was in fact carried out months before 7 July when the rioting broke out.[2]

The report noted that Bradford had strong divisions along racial, ethnic and religious lines,[2] reinforced by segregated schooling. This had resulted in communities deeply ignorant of each other, often leading to mutual resentment: "Different cultural communities believe they get nothing while others get all the benefits".[1] Lord Ouseley said this needed to be tackled with strong civic leadership, more effective communication, and a strengthening of partnerships between community groups. The report also noted a widespread fear of crime and violence which West Yorkshire Police had insufficiently tackled for fear of being branded racist.[1] This had resulted in several Asian gangs who were generally considered "untouchable".[2]