Exclusive interview with Duwayne Brooks (Lewisham Liberal Democrats)

Lewisham Liberal Democrats <info@lewishamlibdems.org.uk>

Exclusive interview with Duwayne Brooks

October 13, 2008 2:23 PM

Duwayne wrote his book to deal with the trauma of Stephen Lawrence's murder

Stephen Lawrence's friend Duwayne Brooks tells us about his book "Steve and Me", what we should be doing to tackle knife crime and why he's supporting the Liberal Democrats.

Why did you decide to write your book, "Steve and Me"?

"Writing the book was a way to ease the trauma of Stephen Lawrence's murder. It was all bottled up inside, but putting it down on paper helped me to get over the pain, and by doing so, I hope it empowers and inspires other people too."

Tell us about your foundation for victims of crime.

"As I know from personal experience, not everyone who has been a victim or witness of a crime receives the same level of support. I am setting up a foundation to improve support for victims and witnesses of crimes, so that everyone receives the same standard of care."

What do you think we should be doing to tackle knife crime?

"Knife crime is a massive problem, and it has been so for a long time. People live in fear of being stabbed, but it's the people who are carrying knives who should live in fear of being caught. One thing I think would make a big difference is for real opportunities to be offered to all young people; more apprenticeships and an end to tuition fees. Young people are being put off going to college because of the debt they'll end up with. This country's too rich to be charging its young people to get an education."

What should we be doing in Lewisham to make a difference?

"We need police in all schools, including primary schools, because the first experience you have of a police officer is so important. For many young people, their first experience is negative, and it just gets worse from there. The only relationship they may have with the police is during a stop and search."

Why are you supporting the Lib Dems?

"Many people just vote for Labour out of habit, but it's time to break the habit. Labour are out of touch with ordinary people and I believe the Lib Dems offer something different; they are the only ones who are really listening to local people."

"Steve and Me: My Friendship with Stephen Lawrence and the Search for Justice" is available to purchase from www.amazon.co.uk.