THIS WEEK the number of arrests in connection with the Handsworth "riot" reached 400 — nearly half the number arrested during the entire miners' strike, and a clear indication that the police are out to inflict punitive vengeance on the black community.
Even more alarming is the way the police are preparing their evidence. Reliable reports tell of shopkeepers who have been asked to sign lengthy statements drawn up by police with the suggestion that if they don't, their claims for compensation could be compromised. Youth have pleaded guilty to charges like criminal damage when told that otherwise they could be accused of arson or eyen involvement in the Post Office deaths.
In lue circulistances tie Hrst lask racing ine labour movement is the defence of these youths. A debate which identifies the social, economic and political causes of what took place, but avoids the fact that of predominantly black unemployed youth are being sacrificed to the law and order lobby will do nothing to convince the black community that the labour movement is prepared to detend their rights.
The Handsworth defence campaign, which is organising the defence of all those arrested, needs labour movement support. It is organising a public meeting this Friday, 4 October, at the Muhammed Ali centre in Hockley, Birmingham. Messages of support, and requests speakers should be sent to: Handsworth legal defence cam- • paign, 104 Heathfield Road, Handsworth, Birmingham. The defence campaign can be contacted by ringing 021 554 0026/2747.
Socialist Action 4 October 1985