How representative of Britain is Boris Johnson’s new cabinet?

Politics Explained: The new administration breaks records with those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, but is wide of the mark on gender and educational background

Only a quarter of Johnson’s cabinet are women, and nearly two-thirds are privately educated (Reuters)

Before conducting one of the most brutal culls in a generation, allies of Boris Johnson briefed he would unveil a “cabinet for modern Britain”.

“Boris will build a cabinet showcasing all the talents within the party that truly reflect modern Britain,” a source close to the new Tory leader said in the final hours of Theresa May’s premiership.

In terms of individuals from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (Bame) backgrounds, it certainly is one of the most diverse administration’s in British history. While the last UK census said 14 per cent defined as non-white, of Mr Johnson’s new cabinet, 17 per cent are from Bame backgrounds.