The report calls for positive action to remove barriers and promote equality and justice. It urges affirmation of black leadership, empowerment programmes and of Black Theology.

It commends the Methodist Church’s increased awareness of racial justice and continuing financial support through the Multi-Racial Projects Fund.

Since 1998 the Black Methodist Group Conference has become an annual event. The Black Methodist Research Forum continues to grow in strength and purpose. While Black Theology has always been present orally, new literature and writers are now emerging.

However in spite of these improvements the problems and inequalities of Black and Asian Britons remain legion. The death of Stephen Lawrence and the subsequent enquiry and report have revealed deep racial prejudice and discrimination from which the Methodist Church is not immune.

The report voices concern that there are only 45 Black and Asian ordained ministers (out of about 2000 in Britain) and that many of these are from abroad. In senior lay positions in the Church and its sister agencies, Black and Asian people remain under-represented.

In spite of this negative picture there is an observed increase in Black and Asian church membership. The report calls on the Church to produce a profile of these members by race, gender and age.

The report lists seven suggestions for a way forward and reminds the Conference of the Wood-Sheppard principles which present a model for positive action without resort to positive discrimination.

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