The Equality and Human Rights Commission has written a letter to MEP Nick Griffin, the leader of the British National Party, asking whether he is aware that some of its policies may not be fully compliant with racial discrimination laws.
"Under the Equality Act 2006, we have a statutory duty to enforce the law," said John Wadham, the commission's legal director. "After the recent elections, this party was brought to our attention for the first time, sparking some concerns that it may not be entirely up to speed on recent legislation with regard to its whites-only membership policy. Now I'm no expert, but it is possible that this may contravene the Race Relations Act."
The commission's letter advises Mr Griffin that the BNP must comply with the law, and asks him to confirm that his party will not discriminate in its employment and recruitment policies, procedures and practices.
Mr Wadham went on to explain that some of his officials were also worried that the BNP's elected representatives may not be providing quite the same level of service to all of their constituents, regardless of race and colour.
"But I think that may be jumping the gun, frankly," he added. "I think we'll just wait and see what they have to say on the matter. I'm sure Mr Griffin will be more than happy to clear up what is probably just a silly misunderstanding."
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