Policing, Politics And Prejudice – A Conversation With Neil Basu QPM The Defuse Podcast: Where Experts Defuse Real Threats podcast

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Policing, Politics and Prejudice – A Conversation with Neil Basu QPM

18h ago 1:13:12

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In this compelling and straight-talking episode, Philip sits down with Neil Basu QPM, one of the UK’s most respected and outspoken former senior police leaders.

Neil shares the lessons, frustrations, and hard truths from over 30 years in policing — from the Stephen Lawrence inquiry to counter-terrorism, leadership under political pressure, and the moral challenges of modern policing.

They discuss racism within the system, the dangers of disinformation, and the human cost of service. Neil also opens up about life after leaving the Met, his book Turmoil, and why courage and compassion are vital to real leadership.

🧭 Key Topics Covered

Institutional Racism & Leadership Fear – Why acknowledging it is the only path to trust.
Counter-Terrorism & Radicalisation – Lone actors, online grooming, and the threat from the far right.
Politics & Policing – When public service collides with political convenience.
The Human Cost of Service – How policing impacts families and communities.
Leadership Lessons – Neil’s mantra: “Be quick, be competent, and be compassionate.”
Life After the Met – From frontline leadership to mentoring, writing, and podcasting.

📚 About Neil Basu QPM

Neil Basu served as Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations at the Metropolitan Police, leading UK Counter-Terrorism Policing. Known for his integrity and willingness to challenge the status quo, he’s been at the heart of some of Britain’s most complex policing and national security operations.

He is the author of Turmoil: The Official Autobiography – 30 Years of Policing, Politics and Prejudice — a raw and insightful account of his career and the challenges of reforming British policing.

Neil also co-hosts the Crime Agents Podcast with crime journalist Andy Hughes, offering honest commentary and insight into crime, justice, and law enforcement today.

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Chapters

1. Welcome And Guest Introduction (00:00:00)

2. Why Write Turmoil (00:02:11)

3. Institutional Racism Defined And Denied (00:05:14)

4. Over Policed, Under Protected Communities (00:12:41)

5. Promotion, Bias, And Leadership Failures (00:18:05)

6. Representation And The US Comparison (00:28:24)

7. Enter Counterterrorism: Lone Actors Online (00:36:47)

8. Post‑9/11 Fractures And Trust (00:43:12)

9. The Rise Of Right‑Wing Terror Threat (00:50:12)

10. Disinformation As A National Security Risk (00:57:08)

11. Big Tech, Moderation, And Money (01:04:22)

12. Palestine Action And Proscription (01:08:31)

47 episodes