Full Disclosure with James O'Brien Former Met Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu: I spent a year in therapy to get over what happened in my career
Aug 23, 2024
Neil Basu, a former assistant commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and head of counter-terrorism, opens up about his extraordinary career. He candidly discusses facing racism within the police, the challenges of navigating mixed cultural identities, and the institution's urgent need for acknowledgment of its biases. His leadership in thwarting terror plots showcases resilience, while his journey reveals the emotional toll of such responsibilities. Basu emphasizes the importance of honest dialogues about institutional racism and mental health support for officers.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Mixed Heritage Shaped Early Identity
- Neil Basu grew up mixed-race with a Bengali father and Welsh mother, facing early racism and family hardship.
- His parents' pioneering mixed marriage shaped his identity and optimism about Britain.
Racism As Power, Not Just Prejudice
- Basu sees racism as one form of power abuse and links different 'isms' to the same underlying bullying.
- He argues focusing on unequal power explains why many disadvantaged groups share similar outcomes.
Say Sorry Before Acting
- Basu criticises leaders who avoid saying 'institutionally racist' to placate media and frontline officers.
- He says acknowledgement and apology are necessary steps before implementing meaningful action.