Dawn Butler says watchdog likely to find Labour ‘guilty of institutional racism’

Former shadow equalities minister Dawn Butler reportedly speculated that the Labour Party is likely to be found guilty of “institutional racism” by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

A report published in the Daily Mail on Wednesday evening claims Butler discussed alleged racism in the party during a virtual meeting with activists on Sunday.

According to the newspaper, Butler said: “You know, racism, institutional racism has existed – and no matter who was in charge – and the party will be found to be institutionally racist, so we may as well just accept that point now.

“What we have to do is live with it and say, ‘How do we make sure that it changes?’ – and that change has to be sustainable, and not just in the short term.”

The EHRC launched in May last year a formal investigation into allegations of antisemitism in the Labour Party. The probe will determine whether the party “unlawfully discriminated against, harassed or victimised people because they are Jewish.”

The equality watchdog does not comment on ongoing investigations.

Dawn Butler was approached for comment.