 The claims come after an undercover report on police racism |
As many as 12 serving police officers in the West Midlands force are members of the British National Party (BNP), a councillor has claimed. Simon Darby, a BNP representative on Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, said there were between six and 12 party members serving with West Midlands Police.
Mr Darby also said that a former force inspector was on a shortlist to run as a BNP candidate in next year's European elections.
A force statement issued on Sunday said the claim was impossible to confirm or disprove, but added that police racism would not be tolerated.
Staying anonymous
Mr Darby was speaking nearly two weeks after the BBC undercover documentary The Secret Policeman was screened.
Six police officers from three different forces resigned after the programme, which captured racist comments on film.
The councillor said: "There are between six and 12 police officers serving within West Midlands Police who are members of the BNP. "They want to remain anonymous because if anyone found out they could lose their jobs.
"After what happened to the officers in The Secret Policeman it's not worth the risk."
In a statement, West Midlands Police said: "It is impossible for us to confirm or disprove the claim that a small number of un-named West Midlands Police officers are BNP members.
'Committed to equality'
"Police officers are not required by law to disclose affiliation to political parties and the BNP is a lawful organisation.
"At the same time, we are quite clear that racism has no part in the police service and will not be tolerated.
"All our 12,000 officers and staff know that if their behaviour falls below the very highest standards they will be challenged and any necessary action taken.
"West Midlands Police is committed to equality, honesty and fairness in everything we do."
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Police officers are not required by law to disclose affiliation to political parties 
