A new complaints system is needed to ensure public confidence

Home Office Minister Charles Clarke

The new complaints framework is intended to mark the climax of the government's response to the Macpherson report into the murder of black teenager Stephen Lawrence.

Pressure groups like Inquest have also called repeatedly for independent inquiries into deaths in custody.

Under the proposed system the most serious and controversial incidents, like deaths in police custody, will be investigated by a mixed team of civilians and police officers, led by a civilian.

Ministers hope the changes will be in place by 2003.

Restoring public confidence

Published on Monday by Home Office Minister Charles Clarke, the plan for the IPCC has been drawn up following months of consultation with human rights pressure group Liberty and consultants KPMG.

The IPCC should come into force by 2003

Mr Clarke said: "Lessons from the last few years have shown just how essential it is for the public to have confidence in their police service, and to be sure that when a complaint is made it is taken seriously.

"A new complaints system is needed to ensure this public confidence - and to guard the undoubted integrity of the police service from accusations of bias."

New legislation is required to bring in the new system but it is hoped the IPCC will be operating by 2003.

Other significant changes include allowing people other than victims of alleged misconduct to make a complaint.

Greater openness will be encouraged with investigating authorities required to provide a full account of the investigation and the action taken as a result.

Dissatisfied complainants will be allowed to complain to the IPCC, which will have powers to reinvestigate or overturn the police decision.

'Greater transparency'

The current system of dealing with police complaints is based on independent supervision rather than independent investigation.

George Hedges, of the Association of Chief Police Officers, said: "We have long recognised that the system of investigating complaints has developed into a system of public accountability and therefore needs greater transparency and independence."

The framework document has also been welcomed by the Commission for Racial Equality.

Chairman Gurbux Singh said: "Getting the handling of complaints against the police right will be an important part of the work of building a new and effective relationship of mutual support and understanding between our police services and Britain's ethnic minority communities."