Straw steps in to race row over bravery award for shot police

JACK STRAW, the Home Secretary, has ordered an inquiry into whether two black officers shot during an undercover drugs investigation should have been recommended for gallantry awards.

The two Metropolitan officers were trying to infiltrate crack cocaine dealing in Birmingham in October 1994 when they were shot by a gang trying to steal their car.

West Midlands Police, to whom the officers had been seconded, has been criticised for its failure to recommend the pair for a George Medal, the second highest civilian award for gallantry after the George Cross.

Mike Bennett, Metropolitan Police Federation chairman, said he was "disgusted" by the way the men had been treated.

The officers concerned, who have both been invalided out of the service, believe the decision was due to racism. They are suing West Midlands police over the incident. Because of the legal action the force has refused to comment on its decision over the gallantry award.

The officers are unhappy that they had no armed back-up during the operation and that they were given no armed protection in hospital.

The chairman of the Black Police Association, Inspector Paul Wilson, welcomed Mr Straw's initiative but said: "I would also urge the Home Secretary to begin an inquiry into the whole affair, which has been handled appallingly."

Mr Straw revealed the new inquiry in a letter to Mr Bennett in which he said: "The gallantry issue should be treated separately from the claims for damage ... I have asked HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary [David O'Dowd] to make an ... assessment of whether the actions of these ... officers meet the criteria to be nominated for a gallantry award." Last night Mr Bennett said: "It's the first bit of common sense involving this issue since October 1994."

The officers were commended for bravery by the West Midlands Chief Constable and the judge, who sentenced the attackers toterms of 12, 8 and 5 years.