To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what steps she (a) is taking and (b) is able to take to help ensure equality in the dispensation of justice across different police services in England.

The Code of Ethics requires all police officers to take active steps to oppose discrimination and make their decisions free from prejudice. This principle is at the heart of police practice. The Code of Ethics was published in 2014 by the College of Policing, who are responsible for setting and maintaining training standards within policing.

In January 2022, The College published its scope for reviewing the existing Code of Ethics. This review will help provide guidance to forces, to aid the implementation of ethical decision making at all levels and support the principle of candour by all working for the police. The full scope of the review is available here: Scope for the Code of Ethics review published | College of Policing”.

The College of Policing also provides foundation training for those entering the police service, which includes substantial coverage of police ethics and self-understanding. Their initial training covers hate crimes, ethics and equalities, and policing without bias. Police forces also provide local training and development at several different levels ranging from initial entry, leadership and ongoing development to reinforce their organisational values.