Minister criticises police anti-racism guidance following riot over Henry Nowak death – UK politics live

Sarah Jones appeals for calm after rioting over the death of Nowak, who was handcuffed while dying from stab wound

Yesterday Gavin Stephens, chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council, said that, althought the NPCC would listen to concerns about how the anti-racism commitment was worded (see 9.29am), the overall intent behind was sound and justified. He said:

It is essential that we police without fear or favour in keeping the peace and enforcing the law. We must do so to earn the confidence of all communities.

This historic and ongoing mistrust between the police and black communities risks, for example, people not reporting things to the police if they are in trouble, or aiding our efforts to catch criminals, fight crime and protect all communities.

Everyone should be treated equally under the law and I think it’s right that they are reviewing this document and looking at the language.

This particular document is a values document, it’s quite a short document and I don’t think it forms the basis of any training or any police activity.

Producing equality of policing outcomes for people from different ethnic groups by responding to individuals and communities according to their specific needs, circumstances and experiences, with understanding that these will be racialised and with the aim of reducing harm.

It does not mean treating everyone ‘the same’ or being ‘colour blind’ (racial equality).

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