§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has to make racial harassment and violence a specific offence; and if he will make a statement. [14437]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe Government intend to introduce new offences of racial harassment and violence in the Crime and Disorder Bill. These measures will send out a strong message to society that such crime is unacceptable and will be dealt with seriously by the courts. A consultation document setting out in detail the Government's proposals was issued on 2 October. We are now considering the responses.