A senior police officer has stated that anti-racism guidance has inadvertently fuelled the myth of two-tier policing, a claim that has been widely criticised by campaigners.
Officer's admission
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Stuart Cundy, the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for counter-terrorism, said the guidance had created a perception that officers treat people differently based on race. He acknowledged that the myth had damaged public confidence in policing.
Speaking at the Police Federation conference, Cundy said: "We have to accept that some of our own guidance has inadvertently fuelled the perception of two-tier policing. That is a problem we need to address."
Impact on trust
The myth of two-tier policing suggests that police are softer on ethnic minority communities and stricter on white people. Cundy's comments come amid growing concerns about public trust in law enforcement.
According to a recent survey by the Police Foundation, only 55% of the public trust the police, down from 67% in 2019. Cundy attributed some of this decline to the perception of unequal treatment.
Criticism from campaigners
Anti-racism campaigners have criticised Cundy's remarks. Dr. Halima Begum, director of the Runnymede Trust, said: "Blaming anti-racism guidance for the myth of two-tier policing is a dangerous distraction. The real problem is systemic racism, not guidance that aims to address it."
The guidance in question, issued by the College of Policing, encourages officers to consider the impact of race and ethnicity on policing. Critics argue it has led to a focus on outcomes rather than fairness.
Police response
The National Police Chiefs' Council has defended the guidance, saying it is designed to improve trust and legitimacy. A spokesperson said: "Our guidance is based on evidence and aims to ensure fair treatment for all. We will continue to review its impact."
Cundy's comments have sparked debate within policing circles, with some officers supporting his view and others arguing that the guidance is necessary to address historical injustices.
