Stop and Search

Lord Davies of Gower Excerpts

Wednesday 3rd March 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Davies of Gower (Con) [V]]

As a former police officer, I recognise the importance of stop and search as a tool—but training is a recurring theme in the report, which is clear that:

“The results of our review of stop and search records suggests that supervisors need further training on their responsibilities and how best to supervise their officers’ use of stop and search powers.”


It goes on to say:

“Research shows that lasting improvements are only achieved when a force’s culture promotes diversity, inclusion and equality.”


I argue that these ingredients are the responsibility of those at the top and throughout the organisation to develop and engender. Does my noble friend agree that if the police are to rid themselves of accusations of disproportionality, they must first address these training issues at all levels?

[Baroness Williams of Trafford (Con)]

I totally agree with my noble friend because good training and, as he said, diversity, with enforcers, should really improve the performance in this area. Training is crucial because, unless these officers are trained, they will not be equipped to deal with these issues.