Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

History Curriculum: Black History

08 September 2020 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Theresa Villiers Con Chipping Barnet

Education

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Theresa Villiers raised concerns about history curriculum: black history in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Theresa Villiers initiated a debate on teaching black history in schools, highlighting the contributions of Black British people throughout history.
  • The debate covered the impact of the slave trade on Britain's past and its current legacy.
  • Eleanor Laing, the Minister, acknowledged the debate's significance and noted that the national curriculum already includes aspects of black history and cultural diversity.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Theresa Villiers Con Chipping Barnet

The debate was initiated by Theresa Villiers to discuss the importance of teaching black history in schools. She highlighted the historical presence and contributions of Black British people dating back nearly two millennia, including soldiers, musicians, teachers, craftsmen, retailers, nurses, writers, actors, singers, farm workers, entrepreneurs, vicars, and chefs. Villiers emphasised the impact of the slave trade on Britain's past and its lasting legacy today. She argued for a curriculum that includes both the positive contributions of black British people and the injustices they faced, aiming to foster understanding and tolerance among young people.

Other contributors (1)
  • Nick Gibb Con Bognor Regis and Littlehampton

    Agreed with Theresa Villiers on the importance of teaching black history and highlighted the government's commitment to a knowledge-rich curriculum that includes black British contributions.

Government Response

Eleanor Laing

The Minister, Eleanor Laing, acknowledged the debate’s significance. She stated that the national curriculum covers various aspects of black history and cultural diversity at different key stages. It mandates teaching about significant figures like Mary Seacole and Rosa Parks in primary education and explores topics such as Britain's transatlantic slave trade, abolition, and the British Empire in secondary education. Laing emphasised the importance of inclusivity, objectivity, and balance in teaching history. The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle discrimination and promote tolerance through various programmes and initiatives funded by the Department for Education. She concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to fostering tolerant, knowledgeable citizens who embrace modern British values.

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