Why Labour’s manifesto commitment to socio-economic background matters

Yesterday Labour officially launched their manifesto, in it was a clear commitment to enact the socio-economic duty in the Equality Act. 

This socio-economic duty requires public bodies to adopt transparent and effective measures to address the inequalities that result from differences in occupation, education, place of residence or social class. It is a key part of Labour’s commitment to ‘ensure no matter whatever your background, you can thrive.’ 

Recent research conducted by More in Common, highlights the public's views on the issue.

A significant 83% of the British public perceives a large class gap in society today, with 63% believing that this gap is as wide or wider than it was 50 years ago. This perception underscores a deep-rooted concern about the lack of equality of opportunity. 

The report reveals a strong consensus that children from richer families have better opportunities across various stages of education and career paths. Specifically, 62% believe that affluent children have advantages in school and university education, while 61% see these benefits extending to prestigious professions such as law and medicine. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among younger adults, with half of 18–24-year-olds stating it is harder to move from a working-class background to a middle-class status today compared to the past. 

The research also suggests public strongly supports government intervention to ensure fair access to opportunities. An overwhelming 81% think the government should ensure equal educational opportunities, and 69% believe it should guarantee equal job opportunities. Additionally, there is significant backing for policies such as free pre-school access and the re-introduction of maintenance grants for university students from low-income households. 

The report identifies key barriers to success, including a lack of job opportunities in local areas (30%), access to quality education (29%), and the state of the UK economy (28%). These systemic issues are seen as critical areas where intervention is needed to level the playing field. 

As the UK heads ever closer towards polling day, and potentially for a new government, the importance of ensuring opportunity for all is increasing. Our cross party work at the Purpose Coalition is ensuring more and more businesses and organsiations are putting this at the forefront of their agenda too.  

You can read more here: "Social Mobility and Opportunity: What the Public Thinks," https://www.suttontrust.com/our-research/social-mobility-and-opportunity/