Hidden Stories of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry: Personal Reflections - Softcover

Richard Stone was a panel member of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry into racism in policing and adviser to the judge Sir William Macpherson. He is an honorary fellow of the Cambridge Centre for Muslim-Jewish Relations and an honorary research follow in the Department of Criminology at the University of Westminster, UK.

“It is apt and timely that Dr Stone should reveal detail from the (only now available) transcript evidence, modulated through his own cool, scientific, and humanely liberal interpretation of this important event. His findings and commentary are of special value: this is the testimony of one who saw the police arguably at their worst and can judge what, if anything, has changed in the subsequent twenty years.” (Bryn Caless, Canterbury Christ Church University)

“Insights into the private considerations of the Stephen Lawrence Murder Inquiry will provide clarity and better understanding about how the combination of prejudice, poor leadership, unaccountable decision-making and abuse of power contribute to institutional discriminatory outcomes.” (Lord Ouseley of Peckham Rye)

“By writing this unique book, Richard Stone has recognised that the learning from the Lawrence Inquiry is still a critical factor in the legitimacy and relevance of policing today, which helps to ensure that the legacy of Stephen Lawrence will withstand the test of time.”  (Leroy Logan, founder of the Black Police Association)

“Going through the Inquiry was a reminder of the pain of losing my son—it was difficult but one I had to sit through. The Inquiry filled in the gaps of what happened the night my son was murdered and showed me the depth of racism and corruption that existed in the Metropolitan police service. To be able to read the behind-the-scenes account by Dr. Richard Stone is important for the history of the Inquiry and its legacy.” (Baroness Doreen Lawrence of Clarendon, OBE)

“The Lawrence report was groundbreaking. It changed Britain for the better. It took courage and determination by the Inquiry’s members to get to the truth. Stone was one of those—and his new book highlights why we have to be ever-vigilant against the unspeakable evils of racism.” (The Right Honourable Jack Straw, MP)

“I salute Hidden Stories of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry for its clarity, its perfect-pitch eloquence, its calm and undeniable force and authority.” (Christopher MacLehose, publisher)

“What comes across very strongly in the book is the message of ‘unfinished business’ on all levels.” (Socialist Review)

"Stone’s worthy book sheds some light on part of this murky subject and his suggestions for improvements on police recruitment, community engagement and accountability should, in my opinion, be required reading for senior police officers."
(Probation Journal)