HL Deb 16 January 2004 vol 657 cc109-10WA
Lord Ouseley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

When they intend to collate a central list of "racist" organisations in order to fulfil their statutory public duty under the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000; and [HL686]

Whether in accordance with their public duty under the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000, proscribed "racist" organisations should be investigated by criminal justice agencies. (HL687)

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

The Government as a whole are not themselves subject to the duty to promote race equality under the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000. However, individual government departments, including the Home Office, are.

The collation of a central list of racist organisations is not a specific duty under the Race Relations (Amendment) Act and the Home Office does not maintain such a list. However, we will consider introducing such a list should a need become apparent.

We have no plans to amend the enforcement powers available under existing legislation. The existing law provides sanctions against racially discriminatory behaviour under the Race Relations Act 1976. The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and the Public Order Act 1986 provide the criminal justice agencies with the powers to take action against organisations or individuals who commit criminally racist acts. Should a need become apparent, however, we will review the situation.

My right honourable friend the Home Secretary has recently agreed with the view that membership of groups such as the British National Party (BNP) by police officers should be made a disciplinary offence.