§ Mr. WinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on his meeting with the parents of Stephen Lawrence. [5679]
§ Mr. StrawI met Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence on 24 June. I was deeply moved listening to the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of their son Stephen. We also discussed broader issues, including racially motivated crime and the relationship between the police and ethnic minority communities. I recognise that a strong case has been made by Mrs. Lawrence for some form of inquiry and I am actively considering what she put to me. I will also consider carefully the other issues that were raised during our meeting and reflect on the best way to address the widespread concern resulting from this case. I hope to make an announcement soon.