Merseyside policeman Steve Bettley sacked after BNP membership probe

Mar 22 2009

Steve Bettley 160

“As soon as we were made aware that Mr Bettley had been named on a BNP membership list an investigation was instigated and he was immediately suspended.

“We have an overriding legal duty to promote race equality and retain public confidence. Officers and police staff are banned from joining or promoting the BNP.

“Merseyside Police prides itself on the good community relations which have been built up with our diverse communities.

“The force expects the highest standards of integrity and professionalism from all our staff and the decision of the panel reinforces this.

“Throughout this process the force has consulted with the Black Police Association and the Independent Advisory Group.”

There was no answer today at Pc Bettley’s home in Prenton, Wirral.

Vinny Tomlinson, chairman of the Merseyside Black Police Association (MBPA), said: “The aims and objectives of the British National Party are totally incompatible with the duties and values of the British police service.

“MBPA believes that where it can be proven and is satisfied that a Police officer or Police staff member is a member or supportive of the aims and objectives of the British National Party, they should be dismissed from service.

“Institutional racism has not been eradicated from UK policing, despite some views expressed to the contrary, but the dismissal of Pc Bettley represents a significant seminal moment in the history of Merseyside Police that bodes well for the future.