Lawrence Inquiry Flashpoints

The eight months of the Lawrence inquiry has heard unprecedented criticism of Britain's police:

24 March 1998

Edmund Lawson QC, counsel to the inquiry, opens the hearings. He describes the police inquiry as "seriously flawed". Michael Mansfield QC, representing the Lawrence family, says: "The magnitude of the failure in this case cannot be explained by mere incompetence ... So much was missed by so many that deeper causes and forces must be considered."

30 March

Neville Lawrence (father) says in statement that he was told that the suspects were seen washing blood off themselves on the night of the murder.

8 May

Michael Mansfield QC alleges there was a corrupt link between a police officer and Clifford Norris, a criminal, and father of one of the five suspects.

14 May

Suspects announce plan to seek leave to apply for judicial review of decision to call them to give evidence.

12 June

High Court grants suspects leave to apply for review.

15 June

Videotape at inquiry shows suspects brandishing knives and expressing violent racist views.

17 June

Sir Paul Condon, Commissioner of the Met, apologises to the family for the incompetent investigation.

18 June

Lord Justice dismisses review application, but says suspects may not be asked whether they killed Stephen.

29 June

Suspects' appearance is marked by violent scenes as Nation of Islam activists attempt to enter building.

30 June

Suspects are pelted with bottles after evasive and implausible evidence and end up fighting in streets.

1 October

Sir Paul Condon repeatedly denies that there is institutional racism in his force. But he says: "I deeply regret that we have not brought Stephen's racist murderers to justice and I would like to personally apologise again today to Mr and Mrs Lawrence for our failure."

13 November

The inquiry final hearings

in Birmingham.

February 1999

Sir William Macpherson's report to be published.