'Take pride in your city'

Lord Ouseley, who was in Bradford today for the launch of the district's race review, Community Pride, Not Prejudice, told the Telegraph & Argus that the way forward is to build on a base of knowledge about other cultures and religions - to create a "shared vision".

He sees young people and education as playing major roles in achieving this.

"The events of recent days in Bradford have given this a sense of urgency," he said.

"It is absolutely key that young people are involved."

To a packed conference room at Valley Parade of more than 300 guests and worldwide media, Councillor Margaret Eaton, chair of Bradford Vision which commissioned the report, said: "Some people could say that the timing of this report and its launch is unfortunate.

"However others like myself feel that given the situation we have all experienced over last weekend, today offers us a strong platform on which to start to build a better Bradford."

Coun Eaton added that one of the most harrowing scenes from last Saturday's violent clashes was "One of young child no older than eight hurling stones at the police. I have to ask the question: How did we get to this?"

But she said Bradford should be praised for being honest enough to tackle the issue of race.

Throughout the work that Lord Ouseley and his panel put into the review, he has made it clear that young people are a priority.

Despite chairing the race review panel and leading the report - making him a focus of attention at today's launch of the review - it is Bradford's youngsters he wants in the spotlight.

"I want people to go out and talk to the young people. They will tell you about this district and what they want," he said.

Pupils from Bradford schools played a crucial role in the race review, discussing race issues with the panel and taking surveys back to their schools, like ambassadors.

Lord Ouseley recognises that children from different backgrounds often fail to mix in Bradford's multi-faith schools, and the district suffers from an unhealthy gang culture, with young people "protecting their own territory."

Now he wants to get young people from all backgrounds in politics and positions of leadership.

"There is a lot of low self-esteem among young people in Bradford, particularly with disaffected young men," he said.

"We need them to feel proud of who they are and where they live.

"We have to clarify what everyone wants for Bradford.

"Everyone - whether it's through education, work, business or leisure - needs to reflect the diversity of this district."

In his review Lord Ouseley says the whole district would need to be involved with a "People Programme" to champion the changes.

He wants this to incorporate a centre of excellence focusing on Bradford people and how they can share their diverse multi-cultural experiences.

"These are the important resources that exist in Bradford and make it unique," he said.

"Interdependency is the way forward. We need to make sure that any People Programme is sustainable through best practice initiatives in businesses and other organisations."

He admitted the timing of the report's launch was difficult but added: "Fate has brought us here today and the circumstances are what they are.

"The issues were in existence before last Saturday and are still in existence today.

"We are not about providing solutions to the problem or immediate reactions.

"The report is intended to bring about lasting changes for all the people of Bradford.

"We cannot offer immediate solutions and we are not here to point the finger."

Martin Garratt, Chief Executive of Bradford Vision, said a panel was being set up to examine the findings and Bradford Vision was in discussion with representatives from a range of groups to ensure fresh blood and real champions met around the table.