§ Mr. KidneyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what recent representations he has received concerning the independence of the Police Complaints Authority from the police that they investigate; [118586]
(2) what plans he has to increase the Police Complaints Authority's independence from the police that they investigate. [118587]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeMy right hon. Friend the Home Secretary receives many representations about the investigation of complaints against the police and the need for greater independence in the process. Although the Police Complaints Authority, which oversees the complaints process, is fully independent of the police, the present arrangements rely on police officers to carry out investigations. We recognise that a complaints system with a stronger independent element in the process would do much to bolster public confidence.
In line with recommendations made by the Home Affairs Select Committee and the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry, we commissioned a feasibility study, which we intend to publish shortly. We will, at the same time, invite public comments on the options which have been identified for achieving such a system.