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All in all this paints a positive picture for the British government, and signals from the upcoming third-generation non-Britons are also encouraging. Today these ethnic groups are well represented in every section of society and on educational and political levels. From the very beginning of his career, Tony Blair indicated that he truly valued the Muslim community which until then had been largely by-passed. Iraq has overtaken the questions of race relations in Britain as for the first time Muslims found themselves not having to justify their opinion. But as the war continued the atmosphere became increasingly hostile - The Muslim's image was irrevocably damaged after September 11th, though it is fair to say that this is also a world-wide issue. .
There are many projects and government institutions in Britain to help various races integrate, with the introduction of the Race Relations act being the most important development with regards to prevention of racial discrimination regarding housing, employment and education. The British Council is perhaps the most single important body in Britain that works in promoting a multi-cultural identity. It has been active since 1937, promoting relationships with world-wide in all aspects, cultural and educational. .
A quote from the WBG sums it up in this manner:.
"The British Council has succeeded in forging strong partnerships to bring knowledge and ideas to some of the most impoverished areas and peoples of the world. By opening avenues to give opportunities, knowledge and experience to the youth of the world, the British Council has brought hopes for a world that develops in a sustainable way and offers all the chance of peace and prosperity.".
James D. Wolfensohn.
President of the World Bank Group.
Other important organs are the Foreign Policy Council, with Mr. Blair as patron and the Muslim Council of Britain, representing the second largest religion and ethnic group in England.
