§ Mr. Arthur Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will draw to the attention of chief constables the fact that any form of racial prejudice is incompatible with the professional standards required, and that no member of the force should have a history of discrimination towards any section of 606W the community which he is concerned to protect.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesChief officers of police do not need any reminder from me that racial prejudice has no place in the police service. They are already well aware of the need to recruit only those who are likely to perform their duties impartially, and the arrangements for selection ensure that a candidate's full history is considered before a decision is made. The importance of avoiding action that might be construed as racially prejudiced is emphasised in police training, and in supervision by senior officers.