Over the last week we have seen protests sweep across America, and have also seen protests here in the UK, in the wake of the horrific death of George Floyd at the hands of an American Police officer.
Today at a meeting of the London Assembly Police and Crime Committee, I and others expressed solidarity with those who have been deeply affected by this incident. I sincerely hope that this is a moment of change with regards to the way in which black and minority communities are treated by police services in this country and beyond.
The disproportionate use of force against black communities by the police is not a problem specific to America, and today I raised questions to the Commissioner and Deputy Mayor regarding the use of taser tactics by the Met against the black community in London. Other issues raised regarding the Met’s relations with our BAME communities included the use of stop and search and the new enforcement powers introduced due to the Coronavirus.
The Met need to provide clear answers with regards to why some policing and enforcement tactics continue to disproportionately affect the BAME community in London. We must also give consideration to disproportionality with regards to the BAME community when it comes to being a victim of crime. I will continue to pursue these issues through the London Assembly until satisfactory answers have been provided.
Notes to editors
- Unmesh Desai AM is the London Assembly Member for City & East London.