UK government restructures efforts to reduce inequality
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Bridget Phillipson, Minister for Women and Equalities, announced the UK government will restructure its approach to tackling socio-economic inequality by moving the work in-house.
The government decided to close the Social Mobility Commission (SMC) and create a new Class Unit within the Office for Equality and Opportunity. This change aims to focus resources directly on reducing disadvantage and improving outcomes for low-income families and disadvantaged communities.
The new Class Unit will lead the implementation of the Socio-Economic Duty, a legal requirement for public bodies to consider the impact of their decisions on lower-income families. Government officials will collaborate with teams focused on social cohesion, local areas, and regional inequalities as part of a broader devolution plan. The SMC will continue to fulfill its current obligations, including publishing its annual State of the Nation report, during a phased transition.
The government plans to formally close the SMC through new laws when Parliament allows, but also stated it will seek ways to maintain external oversight of the agenda. Officials are planning a smooth transition and will consult with staff during the changes. Phillipson believes this reform will put the fight against disadvantage “at the heart of government” and empower local communities.
