Not sure that's an earth wire. It looks like it's some sort of reinforcement for the main cable.
Earth wires carry current in the event of a fault and must be insulated to account for it.
Is the lamp low voltage?
It has a very thin insulation on it. Shade is fairly hefty so could see why reinforcements could be needed. At the ceiling box end there is an earth connection however.
Lamp is 25w max, but it’s ceiling so assume 240v.
OK. Is the lampshade all plastic?
If so you don't need to earth it, if it's a metal (or partially metal) shade then I'd attach the earth somehow.
@Howard started
London Fixed Gear and Single-Speed is a community of predominantly fixed gear and single-speed cyclists in and around London, UK.
This site is supported almost exclusively by donations. Please consider donating a small amount regularly.
Not sure that's an earth wire. It looks like it's some sort of reinforcement for the main cable.
Earth wires carry current in the event of a fault and must be insulated to account for it.
Is the lamp low voltage?