Lawrence's father collapses at inquiry

Neville Lawrence with his wife

The father of murdered black teenager Stephen Lawrence has collapsed during the public inquiry into his son's death.

Neville Lawrence was taken ill in a family room as the inquiry heard a statement from Duwayne Brooks, 23, who was with Stephen on the night he died five years ago.

Mr Lawrence had been in the inquiry room to hear Mr Brooks' statement being read, but left after a few minutes.

The Lawrences' lawyer interrupted the evidence to say Mr Lawrence had collapsed. Chairman of the inquiry, Sir William Macpherson Cluny, immediately called an adjournment while a doctor was called.

The doctor later told the inquiry that Mr Lawrence was physically all right and wanted the evidence to be heard.

Mr Brooks and Stephen, then both aged 18, were chased by a gang in Eltham, south London, as they waited for a bus. Stephen was stabbed to death.

The inquiry was set up by the government after public unrest about the way the investigation and subsequent legal failure to convict was handled.

Five white men arrested but never convicted of the murder are launching a legal bid to avoid having to give evidence at the inquiry. They have already been told they could face legal proceedings if they do not turn up to give evidence on June 8.