Building stronger, more integrated communities is central to our vision for Britain.
Under Labour, state-driven multiculturalism, uncontrolled immigration and the threat of extremism have led to an increase in distrust and segregation, and left us with divided communities.
A Conservative Government would:
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Introduce a clear strategy for national integration to build a stronger and more united society;
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Make English a priority for all communities by redirecting some of the money the Government currently spends on translation into additional English classes;
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Teach history in our schools to promote our shared values and history, ensuring children are taught a proper narrative of British history;
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Support faith, voluntary and charitable groups based on their effectiveness in countering poverty and deprivation rather than on the basis of ethnicity or faith;
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Introduce a National Citizen Service for 16 year olds to give them a chance to develop the skills needed to be active and responsible citizens, to mix with people from different backgrounds, and start getting involved in their communities;
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Support Combined Cadet Forces as they teach young people the values of discipline, respect, and loyalty. They also provide a taste of military life. We will make it easier for local authorities to use money set aside for community projects to extend the cadet scheme into more state schools;
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Give greater recognition to St George’s day. To create a coherent national identity we must show respect for Englishness just as we do for Scottishness, Welshness and Irishness. Local authorities should take a lead, as Boris Johnson has done in London.
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Tackle unacceptable cultural practices by classifying Khat, closing Polygamy loopholes, tackling forced marriages, and ensuring religious courts act in accordance with the Arbitration Act; and
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Tackle all extremism which promotes violence or hatred and challenge racism and bigotry in all its manifestations.
We believe that the State is no substitute for community. So a Conservative government will help promote integration, but recognise that it is about much more than government and politics – it is, above all, a social responsibility.
And that means that everyone must do all they can to make this a fairer and more just society – helping others, creating opportunity, and ensuring that no-one is excluded and left behind.