London, (Shahzad Ali) __ The UK Government has outlined steps being taken to reduce the employment gap between people of Pakistani and Bangladeshi ethnic backgrounds and those from white ethnic backgrounds, following a written question raised by Lord Qurban Hussain.

Responding on behalf of the Government, Baroness Sherlock, the responsible minister, said that the number of individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds in employment reached a record high of 6.1 million between April and June 2025 — an increase of 520,000 compared to the previous year. However, she acknowledged that “there is more to do” to ensure equal opportunities for all groups in the labour market.

Baroness Sherlock explained that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides a comprehensive range of support to job seekers through its Jobcentre network, including one-to-one guidance with work coaches and interview preparation assistance.

She added that the Government’s “Get Britain Working” White Paper represents the most significant set of employment reforms in a generation, backed by a £240 million investment. The initiative aims to tackle economic inactivity, help individuals secure sustainable employment, and promote an inclusive labour market “in which everybody, regardless of their background, can participate and progress in work.”

The minister further noted that the DWP’s place-based toolkit enables Jobcentre districts to assess local labour market conditions, identify employer needs, and coordinate with local authorities and mayoral offices. Each area, she said, will have its own “Get Britain Working Plan” to ensure that employment support is tailored to community needs and regional labour markets.