Labour demand an independent inquiry into cricket's racism crisis

Shadow secretary of state for digital, culture, media and sport Jo Stevens says the 12-point plan unveiled by the ECB "is a reminder of previous failures"

Labour have called for an independent inquiry into the racism crisis in cricket and have launched a scathing attack on the England and Wales Cricket Board following the unveiling of a 12-part plan to tackle discrimination.

Stakeholders from across the game have united to produce an action plan in the wake of the emotional testimony produced by Azeem Rafiq and many other victims of racism and prejudice.

It follows a threat from the government that an independent regulator could be enlisted to take charge of cricket if the response to the scandal is insufficient.

The shadow culture secretary Jo Stevens MP is calling for further steps to be taken to tackle cricket's issues.

"The report today is a reminder of previous ECB failures to get a grip on the racism scandal engulfing cricket," she said.

"Many of the measures listed should have been in place years ago. 

"Players, staff and fans will struggle to have faith in a process which is being overseen by the same people who have stood by for so long.

"What we need is a proper independent inquiry to encourage victims to come forward for real changes to be made across cricket."

Stevens previously clashed with the government over the treatment of Ollie Robinson for the historic racist and sexist tweets he sent via Twitter, agreeing with his suspension.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson supported comments made by Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden that the ECB should "think again" about their response.

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