Overview

• West Yorkshire Police has implemented recruitment practices that temporarily block white British candidates to prioritize ethnic minority applicants.
• The force argues these measures address significant underrepresentation, with ethnic minorities making up 23% of the local population but only 9% of the police force.
• Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has defended the approach, stating it ensures fairness while encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.
• Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has criticized the policies as discriminatory and warned against prioritizing diversity over meritocracy in public institutions.
• The controversy has reignited debate over affirmative action and the growing focus on diversity, equality, and inclusion within UK police forces.