The recent criticisms directed towards the Anti-Racism Commitment in policing are being seen as more of a political statement rather than genuine scrutiny. Chris Philp, the Tory Shadow Home Secretary, has raised concerns about the Commitment, linking it to potential risks in policing and accusing it of being influenced by radical activists.
Philp’s critique of the “two-tier” policing approach seems to stem from a skepticism towards addressing racial inequality within the system. It is noted that Philp’s arguments would have more weight if he had previously engaged with the initiatives aimed at tackling racial disparities during his tenure as Policing Minister.
During a five-year period, the Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board, which I chaired, closely examined the Police Race Action Plan. This national program was designed to enhance policing practices for Black individuals, particularly in areas such as the use of force. Statistical data revealed alarming trends, such as the disproportionate use of force against Black individuals in various scenarios.
Despite periodic criticisms of the Police Race Action Plan for its slow progress and communication gaps, it is essential to note that anti-racism efforts should be open to constructive feedback. Philp’s lack of active involvement with the Race Action Plan team and failure to work towards its enhancement raise questions about the sincerity of his current criticisms.
The Police’s Anti-Racism Commitment, which has now come under scrutiny, was initially introduced in March 2025 with support from the Labour Policing Minister, Diana Johnson. The Commitment, although imperfectly phrased, was the result of collaborative efforts between the Action Plan team, anti-racism experts, community representatives, and oversight bodies.
Contrary to Philp’s interpretation, the Commitment’s emphasis on racial equity is not about treating individuals differently based on skin color but rather about acknowledging diverse needs and experiences to ensure fair and equitable treatment. The Commitment seeks to address racial disparities within policing while promoting transparency and evidence-based decision-making.
The tragic case of Henry Nowak highlights the importance of effective anti-racist policing to prevent such failures in the future. Rather than dismissing anti-racism advocates, it is crucial to engage with evidence-based discussions and address systemic issues within law enforcement to prevent harm and improve accountability.
In conclusion, withdrawing commitments to anti-racism efforts due to misinterpretations would be a misguided response to recent events. Instead, a thorough investigation into the police’s actions in the Henry Nowak case is necessary to identify any shortcomings and implement measures to enhance evidence assessment, risk evaluation, and vulnerability recognition in policing practices.
It is essential for individuals who had the opportunity to influence anti-racism initiatives in the past to approach the issue with seriousness and avoid mere post-event certainty. Genuine scrutiny requires a deep engagement with the complexities of the matter rather than surface-level criticisms.
