MANY events throughout Britain in the last week have destabilised multicultural communities, striking fear into the hearts of right-thinking people.

In Halifax, the British National Party gained its first council seat in Yorkshire and, closer to home, Neil Acourt and David Norris were freed early from their prison term for aggravated racial harassment.

This is a ridiculous decision to make if the authorities are to convince people racism in this country is treated as a serious crime.

The Met Police, who have turned their back on the institutionalised racism found by the Macpherson report, worked hard to secure a conviction for Norris and Acourt. They must see their release as a slap in the face.

The community of Eltham also has every right to be shocked at the ill-thought-out nature of the decision.

Of course it is for everyone in the community to tackle racism and to ensure everyone is treated equally.

But Government authorities ought to provide a lead and set the example by punishing racists with the full weight of the law.

This latest decision sends all the wrong signals to community campaigners fighting tirelessly to stamp out prejudice, whose work should be applauded and respected.

Sarah Warden

January 28, 2003 11:00