BRENT and Harrow are two of the most diverse boroughs in the country, according to census data.
Figures from the 2011 survey, which were released on Tuesday, show Brent was the second most diverse borough in the UK, behind Newham.
Harrow has the highest population of Indian descent in the country, with 63,051 (26 per cent of the population); Brent was second with 58,017 (18.4 per cent).
Harrow also continues to have the highest number of Hindus in England and Wales and the highest number of people who were born in Sri Lanka, Kenya, South and eastern Africa and Romania.
In Brent, 64 per cent are black, Asian or minority ethnic, behind Newham with 71 per cent. Brent also has the largest Arab population in the UK (11,430) and the second largest Asian (35,589), behind Ealing.
The data also shows a significant rise in the percentage of Brent residents living in the private rented sector.
Councillor Thaya Idaikkadar (pictured), who became Harrow Council’s first Sri Lankan leader in October, said: “This data confirms what the people of Harrow are already so proud of, that we are one of the most diverse places in the country.
“It is wonderful to be part of such a diverse borough, knowing that people from all around the world come here to live and work together.”
Brent Council leader Muhammed Butt (Lab) said: “The census shows there is so much for us to be proud of in Brent, but it also highlights some of the key challenges facing us as a community.
“We are living proof that multiculturalism can work. However, the dramatic rise in use of the private rented sector is worrying.
“I have committed to taking radical action next year to improve the standard of homes in the private sector. This is now more important than ever.”
