Police officers have their say

32/01
18 May 2001

For the first time police officers in London will be consulted about their response to Recommendation 61 of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry Report. The MPA will host a consultation seminar with Metropolitan Police officers on Monday 21 May 2001.

Recommendation 61 proposes that anyone who is stopped by police should be given a record of that stop. Currently only stops and searches are recorded.

The seminar will look at the police perspective on Recommendation 61, and the implications for police of its implementation. Other issues to be debated include the definition of a police stop and the nature of 'a record'. The MPA and Community perspectives will also be represented.

Toby Harris, Chair of the MPA said:

"It is our priority to build confidence and trust in police amongst all our communities.

"The Stephen Lawrence Inquiry Report recognised the need for stop and search and informed research shows that stop and search is an important tool for police in the fight against crime, particularly drug and gun crime. But it is a tool that must be used with respect.

"However, we also know that stop and search is a major cause of concern, particularly amongst young people and ethnic minority groups. In order to overcome hostility to stop and search, these powers must be used fairly and transparently.

"We want to continue to build upon the positive changes that have taken place in the Met as a result of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry Report and we welcome the opportunity to consult with operational officers who have to implement these powers. It is the only way forward if stop and search is to be a credible and acceptable police power."

This will form part of the MPA's consultation programme with communities and key groups across London, in response to the Home Office request for all police authorities throughout England to consult with their communities about Recommendation 61. The Association of Police Authorities also launched a national campaign in London on 12 March 2001, to inform people about their rights when stopped and searched by the police.

Further media information

For further information, please contact the MPA press office.