Fairness fight wins professor’s backing

STRIVING for fairness . . . from left, are Cathy Butterworth of Oldham Council, Mike Kelly, head of responsibility at KPMG, global network of professional firms providing audit, tax and advice services, Debbie Abrahams, Professor Richard Wilkinson and Councillor Jenny Harrison

ACCLAIMED author Richard Wilkinson is backing Oldham’s fight against inequality

The professor praised the work of the Oldham Fairness Commission, but highlighted the task facing politicians as they address the growing divide between rich and poor.

The professor was guest speaker at the commission meeting at Shaw and Crompton Parish council’s headquarters on Friday.

The event was organised by the OFC’s chairman, Debbie Abrahams, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth.

Over the past five years, Professor Wilkinson has given seminars around the world.

Mrs Abrahams said: “Having been an admirer of Professor Wilkinson’s work I knew we were going to experience a quality presentation and everyone was impressed.

“The bigger the gap, the lower your life expectancy, the poorer your mental health and the less socially mobile communities are. The smaller the gap, the longer you are more likely to live.

“I’m really grateful to Richard for coming to Oldham to share his knowledge with and now it’s up to us to take the opportunity to use his findings to make a positive difference.”

Professor Wilkinson said: “I really enjoyed speaking at the OFC and discussing how our research on the effect of inequality in different countries can help Oldham.”