Met pledges no tolerance of racism (From Romsey Advertiser)

Met pledges no tolerance of racism

5:23am Friday 6th April 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

Scotland Yard has come under the spotlight after facing fresh allegations of racism amongst its officers.

It emerged on Thursday that 10 new complaints have been referred to the police watchdog, just days after the force vowed to get to the bottom of "very damaging" footage of one officer apparently racially abusing a man and another allegedly assaulting a teenage boy last summer.

Deputy Commissioner Craig Mackey insisted "the Met does not tolerate racism" as he revealed seven allegations had been reported after three officers were suspended over claims of offensive comments to colleagues.

He warned there would be further referrals as he announced he had commissioned a review of complaints relating to alleged racism "to check the progress of ongoing cases".

A total of five officers have been suspended over the fresh allegations.

The force is working with the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) to investigate the claims.

Mr Mackey said on Thursday: "Whilst any use of racist language is abhorrent, what is reassuring for me is that in the 10 cases that have been referred to the IPCC, six involve other officers who have stood up and raised concerns, showing that we are an organisation that will not stand for any racist behaviour.

"These officers were not motivated to report their concerns by recent media coverage as this was done before this week.

"I will always want to work in an organisation where someone who believes they've seen unacceptable behaviour feels they can challenge it and report it - knowing action will be taken, as it has been in these cases and as it will be whenever it occurs.

"The Met does not tolerate racism."