The British Asian Contribution to the UK Economy-an Update from Article 13

In the latest Article 13 website update, we focus on UK diversity and social cohesion, in particular, British Asian contribution to the UK economy.

Article 13 works in the area of corporate responsibility to deliver competitive edge and a new way of doing business". We implement these opportunities in business and government, both within the UK and internationally.

You may have seen the BBC2 documentary this week which looked at the high proportion of Asian millionaires in the UK, asking what were the secrets behind their success. Digby Jones, CBI director-general, at recent national business conference, also spoke of the importance of the British Asian community to the UK economy. It would appear that British Asians are becoming a focal point for both industry and media and this is largely based on emerging evidence that British Asians' economic contribution far outweighs its actual population size.

We have looked into this issue in some depth within the context of UK diversity and social cohesion. We ask the questions: what lies behind the economic strength of this ethnic minority, what characterizes Asian entrepreneurship, how far does social responsibility play a role, and what are the opportunities for policy makers by tapping into this emerging force for economic and social development?

This months best practice case studies are three very different organisations, but all Asian entrepreneurs. We have all heard of or enjoyed a less gassy" Cobra Beer with our curries. We look at the success of this company, against all odds". Key Travel, an Asian social entrepreneur is a travel agency serving the not-for-profit sector, enjoying great success in its sector, as well as a leader in social responsibility. Aimimage Productions, an Asian film and television company, successfully breaking out into a traditionally non-Asian market.

In our briefing papers, we look firstly at British Asians -- a diversity success story, and the characteristics and opportunities in this often affluent ethnic group. We also look at the business support services available to Asian businesses, how they have developed in the past and where they need to go in the future to support further cohesion and access. Finally, we summarise the findings of a recent study, (and one of the only studies ) looking at Asian business and corporate social responsibility.

On Article 13s website you also have the chance to vote in our new online poll... www.article13.com ...have your say!

Article 13 unlocks the innovation opportunities of corporate social responsibility to deliver competitive edge and a new way of doing business". We implement these opportunities in business and government, both within the UK and internationally.

We are innovators -- identifying the key issues and emerging trends for CSR through our work, through our original research and through our strong networks. www.article13.com distils the best of the information for you in our opinion forming articles, briefing papers and best practice case studies. Be sure to visit the site regularly as we analyse a new trend and topic area every 6 weeks.

Article 13's co-directors, Neela Bettridge, Jane Fiona Cumming and Dr Paul Toyne, have extensive experience in a number of critical fields: business strategy, participative planning and processes, the social and environmental arenas and communications. Article 13 also draws on the wisdom of distinguished advisors: Professor Dave Owen, Chris Hoare, Professor Colin Gilligan and Professor Mike Jones. This panel, in turn, is complemented by a network of specialists drawn from the social, environmental, economic, ethical and business worlds.

For further information please contact Rupali Patni
Article 13, Bradley House, 26 St Albans Lane, London, NW11 7QE
Tel: 0208 731 7700
Fax: 020 8731 8800
rupalip@article13.com
www.article13.com