Why is an institution found to be institutionally racist, misogynist, homophobic and corrupt being given more power?

• THANK you for raising the question can the Metropolitan Police Service be trusted with their new powers… (Comment, Are wide new powers safe in the hands of the Met? May 11).

From our experience as organisations campaigning for protection and justice, the answer is a resounding “no”. But we must ask why is an institution found to be institutionally racist, misogynist, homophobic and corrupt being given more power at the very moment it is supposed to be ridding itself of these illegalities?

The home office priorities are clear: ditch public accountability, instead crack down on those demanding government action on the burning dangers of our time – the climate emergency, war and profiteering (on top of government subsidies) by fossil fuel companies, the forced displacement of millions of people who are then criminalised for seeking asylum, increased poverty, especially among single mothers and our children, rape and domestic violence (including by police), and the rampant defunding and privatisation of the National Health Service.

At this moment of confrontation between movements for justice and the state, the Labour Party has made its position clear: it will not repeal the new police powers under the Public Order Act 2023 and its members are banned from associating with movements and organisations, including the All African Women’s Group.

But despite increased repression, movements are finding ways to work harmoniously and effectively with each other. This should give us all courage in our determination to win changes we so desperately need.

CRISSIE AMISS
Global Women Against Deportations
(GWAD includes All African Women’s Group, Legal Action for Women, Women Against Rape,
& Women of Colour/Global Women’s Strike)