BLACK ARRESTS CAUSE CONCERN

Figures showing that black people in Norfolk are nearly seven times more
likely to be stopped and searched by police than white people have been
condemned by a race equality group.

Black residents are also nearly six times more likely to be arrested than
whites, the latest statistics show.

Norwich and Norfolk Racial Equality Council (NNREC) hit out at the figures
but stressed that the problem was with society as a whole.

The figures show disparity in Norfolk is actually higher than it is
nationally.

NNREC director Anne Martin said: "The numbers of people being stopped and
searched is going down but the ratio of black people to white people is not
and we have grave concerns with these figures."

And she added the stop and search figures might be applied to other parts of
society.

"We receive complaints from black people on access to services, support by
statutory agencies to deal with racism, discrimination in employment and
racial harassment at work, so the problem is much deeper than just being a
police one.

"If the figures continue to show disparity how will public bodies continue
to justify having the powers they currently have?"

Acting Supt Mick Kirkham, of Norfolk police, outlined the benefits of the
police's powers.

He said: "Stop and search leads to the arrest of one in four drug-dealers,
almost all arrests for carrying dangerous weapons and it led to the largest
find of crack cocaine in this country for the last three years.

"The powers enable the police to be proactive in the prevention of crime and
the protection of the community."

The Association of Chief Police Officers admitted there was much work to be
done, but stated it was "determined to demonstrate fairness in every aspect
of policing".

Norfolk Chief Constable Ken Williams gave his support to tackling the
problem.

He said: "We have a zero tolerance policy and will not tolerate racism in
any shape or form.

"All parts of our community must have the confidence that their constabulary
will deal with them in a sensitive and fair manner."