23 April 2012

Theresa May Considering New Inquiry Into Stephen Lawrence Murder

The Guardian newspaper has reported that the home secretary is considering ordering a new public inquiry into the murder of Stephen Lawrence.

The prospect of a new Macpherson-style inquiry – the original report published in 1999 made landmark findings against the police – has been triggered by allegations that police corruption may have shielded the gang that murdered Lawrence in a racist attack.

Theresa May is believed to see the allegations as being of the "utmost importance", and that they must be investigated thoroughly to avoid undermining confidence in the police.

Doreen Lawrence has called on the home secretary to order a second public inquiry into the police investigation of the murder of her son, who was killed by a racist gang 19 years ago, on April 22, 1993.

The call for a ‘Macpherson 2’ comes as the Metropolitan police says it has been unable, after a month of investigating, to establish whether it passed potentially crucial files detailing investigations by its anti-corruption command to the public inquiry into Lawrence's death, which was held in 1998.

Cost and questions over whether it would be the best forum to explore the issues may factor into May not ordering another inquiry, however the lingering allegations and seriousness of them could push her towards reopening the case.

(H)