THE racial tension evident in Oldham finally erupted in front of the whole nation with devastating results. Television showed the burning of vehicles and injuries to police and members of the public, which demonstrated the total destruction of trust among the communities, white and black alike.

It is alleged that the recent violence was ignited by the brutal beating of a white pensioner, an attack on a pregnant Asian woman and other incidents. It is also alleged by Asian youths that police did not take action against whites who subjected them to racial abuse and attacks.

So who is to be blamed for the violence? Whites, Asians, police, community leaders, the media or the social deprivation, including unemployment and poor housing? Does blaming each other resolve the problem and reduce the tension in Oldham in particular, and in the country in general? The Race Relations Act 1976 has been amended in the light of the published McPherson Report and obligates the police and other authorities to work towards the elimination of racial discrimination and to promote good relations. It is too early, however, to expect any real change in police attitude or any vigorous commitment by other public bodies on this issue.

No legislation or additional resources will bring tangible results until the commitment is there. Trust between individuals and communities is built only by fair and decisive action and because of that, the police must look into the disturbances and their root causes more seriously than ever before.

Councillor M. Riaz Ahmed, the deputy mayor of Oldham, was the victim of a petrol bomb attack at his home. What next?

NASRULLAH KHAN,

former director of

Bury Racial Equality Council.