HC Deb 23 July 2004 vol 424 cc876-7W
Mr. Drew

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many cases are outstanding from the stop and search orders issued under Section 44 of the Anti-Terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 at the time of the use by the US Air Force of RAF Fairford. [183826]

Ms Blears

Stop and search powers under Section 44 of the Terrorism Act 2000 were in force in Gloucestershire Constabulary between 6 March and 27 April 2003. During this period, as a result of a Section 44 stop and search, six people were arrested for suspected drug related offences, one person for a suspected breach of the peace and one person for suspected criminal damage. None of these cases are outstanding. Five of those arrested were released, two were cautioned and one received a conditional discharge.

Mr. Wood

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what assessment he has made of the 2002–03 stop and search figures for West Yorkshire; and if he will make a statement. [184795]

Ms Blears

The Home Office's Stop and Search Action Team has analysed the figures relating to the use of stop and search powers in West Yorkshire during 2002–03. There was a significant rise in the overall number of people who were stopped and searched by the police, but the figures do not suggest that there is evidence that the police had targeted any particular racial or ethnic group. Between 2001–02 and 2002–03 there was not a significant change in the proportion of people from different racial and ethnic backgrounds that were stopped and searched by the police.

Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will review the operation of stop and search powers in England(a) generally and (b) under counter-terrorism legislation. [183120]

Ms Blears

In July 2004 the Stop and Search Action Team (SSAT) was launched to ensure that police forces use the stop and search power fairly and as effectively as possible.

SSAT's programme of work will include further research looking at the disproportionate impact of these powers on communities; work with selected forces to understand the causes of disproportionality; and the development of a good practice package.

The SSAT will be working with both police and community representatives to deliver their work programme. The use of stop and search powers under terrorism legislation is included within the work programme and this will include work to reassure Muslim communities that these powers, including counter-terrorism powers, are being used proportionately and appropriately.