London’s Form 696 has been removed

London’s controversial Form 696 has been removed following a month-long assessment at the behest of Mayor Sadiq Khan. The form has been heavily criticized for being both racist and stifling towards London’s grime and garage scenes.

A statement on the Metropolitan Police website alluded to this criticism: “There is no doubt that over the last decade a number of serious incidents have been prevented through the effective exchange of information, advice and intelligence between the Met, promoters and venue managers as part of this process.

"However, we also recognise recent concerns raised by members of the London music industry, particularly around a perception that events associated with some genres of music were disproportionately affected by this process.”

The risk assessment form, which was established in 2005 in response to club shootings and gang violence, will be replaced by a voluntary system.

"We have taken the decision to remove the Form 696 and instead develop a new voluntary partnership approach for venues and promoters across London," said Superintendent Roy Smith. "This will provide an excellent opportunity to share information at a local level and work to identify any enhanced risk to ensure the safety of the public." 

Mayor Khan told the Met site: “I called for a review of Form 696 earlier this year because of concerns raised by promoters and artists in the capital that this process was unfairly affecting specific communities and music genres. By bringing together the Met and representatives from across the city’s legendary grassroots music industry, we have shown why having a Night Czar is so important for London. 

“This decision will help London’s night-time economy thrive, ensure the capital is a welcoming place for artists and DJs of all music genres and that Londoners are able to enjoy live music safely.

Since coming into office, Mayor Khan has remained a major champion for London’s nightlife venues and economy.