Blunkett embraces effective, multiracial policing

Wednesday, 24 September 2003 12:00 AM

Home Secretary David Blunket yesterday called on the National Black Police Association to continue to fight against racism within the police force.

Addressing the Association's annual conference in Cardiff, he said: "To get the best, whatever their background, the service has to be attractive to the best."

Mr Blunkett highlighted the sizeable increase in the number of ethnic minority officers on the beat, which had helped undergird community policing.

The "demographics" of the police service were changing, he said.

"An effective, modern, visible and community focused service is vital if we are to maintain delivery and achieve the civil renewal and engagement agenda that we're promoting.

"We have record numbers of police officers, with the number of minority ethnic officers increasing by over 50 per cent since targets were set in 1999. And it's not just about officers. Minority ethnic representation of police staff is currently at 6 per cent, already ahead of the 2004 milestone of 5 per cent."

Mr Blunkett welcomed the Association's willingness to work with the Met Police on race issues.

"Last week we had a public profile for one part of the service which all of us would want to put right and put behind us. Only by addressing the issues can this be achieved. Only by coming together can we make the continuing improvements possible."

His speech came after the chairman of the Black Police Association's London branch, Chief Inspector Leroy Logan, warned ethnic minorities against joining the force.

Race relations within the police are frosty at present. Mr Logan's remarks came after the acquittal of Asian officer Superintendent Ali Dizaei following a four-year investigation into claims that he compromised national security, was a drug user and enjoyed the services of prostitutes.

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