Race hate crimes 'on increase'

Hate crimes are on the increase in Greater Manchester, according to new statistics released by the police.

Greater Manchester Police's Race and Diversity Monitoring report says there were nearly 4,000 hate crimes in 2003, 80% of which were racially motivated.

There was a drop in stop and search incidents overall, but an increase in searches amongst the black community.

GMP is defending the figures, saying it wants to see more co-operation with diverse communities.

Hate crime is defined as any criminal offence motivated by the offender's hate against people because of their sex, race, religion, disability or sexual orientation.

The report said there was an overall decrease in robbery , burglary and vehicle crime last year until March 2004.