CPS to review Blair Peach investigation
CPS to review Blair Peach investigation
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Monday, 14, Dec 2009 05:42
By Richard James.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is to review the death of an anti-racism protestor 30 years ago.
Blair Peach, a teacher, died as police attempted to disperse protestors involved in a demonstration against the National Front in Southall, west London, in April 1979.
The 33-year-old from New Zealand died from a blow to the head at the protest.
Metropolitan police commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson said back in June an internal review into Mr Blair's death should be published unless "overwhelming" reasons not to were uncovered.
The CPS confirmed in a statement this afternoon it had agreed to review the Blair Peach report and provide advice as to whether any further investigation into any aspect of the matter would be justified.
"This independent oversight should provide clarity to the family of Blair Peach and the public that the Metropolitan police service has exhausted all investigative options in relation to this historic case," the CPS said.
"Earlier this year the commissioner publicly stated his desire to publish the report unless there were overwhelming reasons not to do so and this view has not changed."
The report is expected to be handed to the CPS this afternoon.