Proud Association with Pride 2004

47/04
29 Jun 2004

The Metropolitan Police Authority sends a warm welcome to everyone celebrating at Pride 2004 (Saturday 3 July) and is proud to sponsor sign language interpreters and a live video screen at the Rally in Trafalgar Square.

Richard Barnes, acting chair of the MPA, said:

“The MPA exists to ensure the Metropolitan Police Service provides a fair service for all London’s communities and we are working hard to make the MPS reflect more accurately London’s multi-cultural, diverse population. Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender communities in the capital are an important part of this diversity.

“We are delighted to see MPS officers marching in uniform again this year with other members of the Gay Police Association. The contribution officers and staff from London’s diverse communities can make from within the organisation, changing attitudes and informing policy, is inestimable. We aim to lead by example, treating and valuing its employees, along with London’s population, with the respect and dignity we all deserve.”

John Roberts, a newly appointed independent member of the Authority, will be working on the MPA stall at the Trafalgar Square Rally.

John said:

“As a new member of the MPA I am keen to promote closer interaction with all London’s communities and encourage more people to become involved in our consultation exercises and have their say about the way our city is policed. Our overall aim is for London to be a safe place for everyone to live, work and socialise and we can all contribute to achieve this.

“I will also continue the Authority’s work to raise greater awareness and sensitivity within the police service of issues specific to Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender people.

“But today we have a clear message to everyone attending the events - Enjoy Pride 2004!”

Notes to editors

1. If you have any concerns regarding policing in London specific to the LGBT communities, please contact John Roberts or Kirsten Hearn, independent members of the Metropolitan Police Authority, on Tel: 020 7202 0184; Minicom: 020 7202 0173; or by email

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