Speaking at the Bedford African Community and ACCMUK Bedford African Community Event on Saturday, John Tizard, Police and Crime Commissioner restated his commitment that every resident and visitor to Bedfordshire deserves, and must always have the full protection of Bedfordshire Police whatever their heritage or faith.

He went on to talk about the major benefits that Bedford and the wider county enjoy as a result of the diverse communities. He said that:

“Whilst Bedford like other areas of Bedfordshire is a town of many communities, it is at the same time one town with one Bedford community. Everyone in Bedford should be proud of the diversity.

“Immigration and people moving here from across Africa and the wider world have contributed to the economic, cultural and social strength of the town.

“Today’s event is testimony to this.

“As PCC, I do not have any remit for immigration or asylum policy. However, personally, I would wish to see an enlightened policy that respects international law, human rights and human decency whilst meeting the economic and social needs of our country and all its citizens. We need immigration controls and rules, but they should always reflect these criteria. We should welcome new people to our country and town warmly and supportively.

“When talking about international policy, immigration policy, asylum policy and domestic policy it is very important to use words with care. Language matters.

“Whatever the specific details of policies being proposed or spoken about I would always expect politicians, community leaders and all of us to speak positively about historic immigration, our national duty to uphold international law and promote community cohesion. I would wish us all to avoid words that might be misunderstood and certainly words that might inflame tensions or undermine our commitment equality and cohesion in Bedfordshire.

“We must always avoid language that might offer hope to those who would seek to divide our communities.

“I am proud of the way in which Bedfordshire Police works and is engaged with communities across the town and county. The social cohesion team plays an important role, but every police officer and member of the police staff has a role to play and must meet the highest professional standards.

“I have consistently committed to policing on a fair, equitable and proportionate basis. I am also committed to members of very community receiving the specialist police and wider public services they need and deserve. That is why I am pleased to support ACCM financially to provide support to victims of evil crimes such as domestic violence and FGM.

“ACCM and other local voluntary organisations are the lifeblood of our communities and our town. Thank you for all that you do.

“I am committed to working with partners including Bedford Borough Council, faith groups and communities, and everyone here today to make our county safer and fairer.”