West Midlands Police bosses may finally apologise for alleged homophobia

The region’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Simon Foster has written to acting chief constable Scott Green urging him to make a public apology following refusals to do so from previous chief Craig Guildford.

A total of 21 forces from across the country have apologised but West Midlands Police has yet to do so.

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At a meeting of the PCC’s Accountability and Governance Board on February 24, chief constable Green said he hadn’t made a final decision but accepted it was “important to look at the issues” and reconsider their position.

He added a meeting with representatives from the community, also attended by Mr Foster, could be a way forward.

West Midlands Police uniformed officers and senior officials were banned from attending the annual Birmingham Pride festival last year as a result of the refusal to apologise.

Chief constable Green said: “I’m aware you have written to me about the historic treatment of LGBTQ+ communities and the fact that about half the chief constables and half the forces in the country have apologised.

“About half haven’t and we’re in that position at the moment.

“My intention is to accept your offer of some of the work your office has done, probably with you to hold that roundtable with representatives if you are in agreement.

“Whilst I’ve not yet made a decision on it, I do think it’s important the force looks at some of these issues in the same way we’ve looked at issues of our black history.

“We’re reflecting on the fact society was a different place in the 70s and 80s and therefore policing was but those harms have nevertheless occurred.

“So, while I’m not giving an answer today that needs to be a starting block of our journey. I will be writing back to you formally.”

After the meeting, Mr Foster said: “I have written to the Acting Chief Constable in connection with the issue of historic discrimination between West Midlands Police and the LGBTQ+ community.

“Previously, the force refused to apologise despite 21 other police forces across the country having done so.

“I have recommended West Midlands Police review its previous refusal and consider issuing a public apology.

“At my Accountability and Governance Board today, I am pleased the Acting Chief Constable committed to reviewing the force’s position, following receipt of my letter and working with me, on the compelling and significant importance of an apology.

“It is essential we do everything we can, to ensure all communities have trust and confidence in our police service.”