The Argus generally is to be congratulated for its coverage yesterday of the Hate Crime Partnership launch.

All involved should feel proud of what has been achieved in putting together the AVI. This will help tackle the problems faced by women, ethnic minorities and those gays and lesbians who are victims of hate violence.

Brighton and Hove is particularly fortunate to have police, probation, local authority and voluntary organisation staff tuned in to the needs of people who in the past have not fared well in the criminal justice system. A few years ago, it would have been unimaginable police officers would have been applauded so enthusiastically for their dedication to help and protect those in society who are vulnerable to hate crimes.

It is not often a government minister from the Home Office welcomes recorded crime rising but I am pleased domestic violence, racist crimes and violent offences against gays and lesbians are now more accurately reported. It will enable us to focus on what needs to be done long term to stop these crimes and put in place

remedies to the problem and support for victims.

One in four of all crimes of violence is probably a hate crime. We need to tackle the causes and their impact and, to those who accuse the Government, police, local councils and others of being politically correct, I say, go tell that to the 5,000 or so victims every year who live here in our city. We need to give a lead and say enough.

I hope the argument over Nick Ross' fee doesn't overshadow the significance of the event.

-Lord Bassam, House of Lords