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White MP says black and minority people would back tougher stop and search

June 4, 2018

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White MP says black and minority people would back tougher stop and search — Michael Fabricant was heckled in the House of Commons for his remarks (Picture: Peter Byrne/PA Wire)

A Tory MP has claimed even the black and minority community would back a tougher stance on stop and search.

Michael Fabricant was heckled by some Labour MPs after insisting BME people would like police to make greater use of the controversial powers.

Speaking in the commons, the MP for Lichfield said: With 44 fatal stabbings in London this year alone, does (Mr Javid) not accept that even the BME community would now welcome a tougher stance on stop and search?

He added: The BME community would welcome a tougher stance on stop and search because initially they argued against it – and thats why I used the word “even”.

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So does (Mr Javid) now not think it is time to provide different guidance to the police when stop and search is appropriate?

Mr Javid replied: Perhaps hes also heard the speech or heard of the speech I made to the Police Federation just last week, where I said police be looking at all the powers they currently have – including stop and search – and whenever they think its appropriate they should not hesitate to use it as itll help all communities.

Mr Javid also signalled the option of seeking to ban knife offenders from social media remains under consideration when challenged to implement such a policy.

And criminals who commit serious offences must know a prison cell awaits them, Mr Javid told MPs during Home Office questions.

Britain's Secretary of State for the Home Department, Sajid Javid, makes a speech outlining an overhaul of UK counter-terror strategy in central London, Britain, June 4, 2018. REUTERS/Toby Melville — Sajid Javid was asked if black and minority people would back tougher stop and search (Picture: Reuters/Toby Melville

Figures have showing stop and search powers are more likely to be used against black people than white people.

Labours Sarah Jones earlier asked if Mr Javid would look at using criminal behaviour orders for people who have been convicted of knife crime to stop them being able to be on social media.

Mr Javid said a lot more can be done without the need for legislation, adding: Youve talked about criminal behaviour orders – we are looking at just that and seeing if we can expand the use.

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