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Research recently published argues that job opportunities available to Britain’s male ethnic minorities haven’t improved since the 1970s. Although this research was not specifically aimed at graduate jobs or any other niche area, it brings into focus the changing demographics in the wider job market – and raises the question of what is being done to address the issue.

The research was carried out by Professor Anthony Heath of The University of Oxford and Professor Yaojun Li from The University of Manchester by analysis of survey data provided by the government. The findings suggest that, far from improving, the situation for minorities may have actually deteriorated in the last 30 to 40 years.

According to the research, ethnic minorities had nearly the same likelihood of securing a job as White people back in the 1970s. However, the next two decades saw an increasing divergence of opportunity taking place, with White males becoming 30% more likely than ethnic minority groups to find work in the 80s and 90s.

Consequently, White groups have also enjoyed the highest rates of employment in the last three decades – 9 in 10 being in work until 1980, followed by around 8 in 10 subsequently.

Professor Heath doesn’t think that the situation has improved much as yet - but does offer a note of optimism: “Previous government attempts to use legislation have failed to narrow the gap although the proposals in the Queen's Speech this month may offer some hope of progress.”

It could be argued that the internet is perhaps the key tool for change in this very important issue.

Employment4students have said that, "With the rise of web-based jobsites and through specific internet marketing strategies pursued by Employment4students (www.e4s.co.uk), we are progressing to a situation where job vacancies can be seen by and are accessible to anyone. The web has ensured that it's not only specific communities or demographics that are made aware of where work is available, but that anyone can find them. Although a major factor in job prospects for minorities is still whether they are equally treated or discriminated against by employers looking to recruit, internet jobsites have without a doubt helped open the job market and are ensuring that people are applying for jobs they may never have heard about before. This is also crucial for employers looking to attract new workers - a wide reach and inclusive approach offers the best opportunities at recruiting the best staff "

Employment4students (E4S) advertises a range of jobs - from graduate jobs and internships, to part time vacancies and holiday jobs. With advertising from £20 for 28 days, and with over 211,000 monthly unique visitors (audited figure), E4S provides one of the most cost-effective ways of recruiting staff.