Stephen Lawrence’s brother files MPS complaint

The brother of Stephen Lawrence has written a letter of complaint against the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) over stop-and-search requests which he claims show the force still penalises black people.

Stuart Lawrence, a teacher who was 15 when his brother was murdered in a racist attack in 1993, claimed he has been stopped around 25 times for apparently spurious reasons by officers, despite having a clean criminal record.

A letter was sent to Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, MPS Commissioner, outlining Mr Lawrence’s concerns, citing in particular an incident which took place on November 16 last year.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Mr Lawrence said: “It appears not much progress has been made in how they [MPS] deal with black people. I just want police to do their jobs properly. I don’t want them to waste time on people like me.”

Mr Lawrence’s complaints echo those of campaigners who feel the force has failed to fully learn the lessons from the 1999 Macpherson Inquiry into the murder, which labelled the MPS “institutionally racist”. David Cameron and Nick Clegg had written to Doreen Lawrence, a race campaigner and mother of Stephen and Stuart, to reiterate the Government’s commitment to equality.

The complaint was forwarded to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), who said they will supervise and set the terms of reference for the MPS investigation.

“The decision to supervise this investigation will be kept under review,” an IPCC spokesperson said.

“Last year, the IPCC shared public concerns generated by a number of referrals alleging racism and announced it would closely scrutinise how the MPS handled racism complaints. As a result of that scrutiny the IPCC has supervised a number of cases alleging racism in the MPS and undertaken additional work.

“We will be publishing the results of this and any further lessons to be learned from Mr Lawrence`s case.”

A spokesperson for the MPS said: “Mr Lawrence`s complaint, which we received last night [January 8], is a very serious matter and it will be investigated thoroughly and speedily.

“Stop and search is an important tool to combat crime and is supported by the community if it is used professionally and fairly.

“Officers are accountable for their actions and it is therefore essential complaints such as these are fully investigated.

“The Commissioner has made it clear that he will not tolerate any form of racism. Strong action will be taken against any individuals if they are found to have acted in a racist manner.”