MPA Chair statement on race hate crimes

39/05
3 August 2005

Commenting on recent figures released about race hate crimes post 7/7 Len Duvall Chair of the MPA said:

“Though any hate crime is not to be tolerated, we must take into account that our methods of recording hate crimes has changed - the actual overall increase in race and faith related hate crime since 7/7 compared to the equivalent period in 2004 is currently running at about 6% - an increase of 83 crimes. It increased slightly in the week following 7/7 but is now back to normal.

“Many incidents previously recorded as race hate crimes are now defined as faith hate crimes, leading to an artificially false large percentage increase from a very low base.

“Since 7/7 both the MPA and the MPS have been very actively encouraging people from our minority ethnic communities to report hate crime and this week we have established the ‘Communities Together’ advice line.

“London is the most diverse and culturally rich city in the world and it is these characteristics that make us so strong, especially in the face of adversity. One of the priorities now is for all communities and agencies to work together to offer mutual support and reassurance. London remains united.

“We are dealing with a very complex anti terrorist investigation but the MPA wants to reassure all Londoners that business as normal continues. All our communities can be assured that our officers will continue to fight crime proactively and robustly, despite the current difficulties we are facing. To anyone who may be contemplating illegal activities, don’t think the MPS will not be dealing with day-to-day crime – we are."

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