Black British people have enriched our national life beyond measure, and their contribution can be felt in every facet of society, including business and commerce, culture, the arts and sport.

Black history in Britain is a story of resilience and ingenuity. It is the story of ordinary people overcoming extraordinary odds, time and again, to build successful lives. And it is absolutely right that we celebrate this rich legacy.

Looking forward, as the country prepares to leave the European Union, we must harness the  wealth of talent and diversity in the UK to fire up business and the start-ups, industries and organisations of our great economy.

As Communities Secretary, it is my mission to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, is able to pursue their ambitions and go as far as their talents will take them.

To ensure that everyone is able to share in a new era of prosperity, this Government is committed to ‘levelling up’ our regional economies and addressing the stubborn disparities which exist in access to housing or education.

With your support, I am dedicated to making this vision a reality.