§ Mr. Tony Banksasked the Attorney-General if he will institute proceedings under the Race Relations Act against the Daily Express, Daily Mail, and the Sun in the light of material published by them between 14 and 17 October regarding the introduction of the new visa system for visitors from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria and Ghana; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Attorney-GeneralAlthough my consent is required for the institution of proceedings under section 5A of the Public Order Act 1936, the investigation of any such alleged offences is, as with any other alleged criminal offence, a function of the police and not the Director of Public Prosecutions or myself. If the hon. Member considers that an offence may have been committed, the proper course is for him to refer the matter to the police so that if, after proper investigation, it is appropriate, a report may be submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service with a view to obtaining my consent for proceedings.