The Metropolitan Black Police Association support the lawful and ethical use of stop and search and recognise its importance in keeping communities safe whilst preventing and detecting crime.
It is incumbent upon every officer that each interaction is conducted with the highest professionalism and with regard for an individual’s dignity and privacy. Each and every search must be fully compliant with the codes of practice as laid down by the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.
Where body worn video is available it must be used for every encounter and the fact that it is recording should be explained to individuals together with details on how they can obtain a copy of the footage should they wish to do so. This footage should also be made available to independent stop and search scrutiny panels upon request.