COMPLAINTS about bullying, sexism and racism are not being dealt with properly by Hampshire police force, a report has revealed.

The force has been criticised over the way it deals with complaints, following a probe into its Professional Standards Department by government inspectors.

A report by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary revealed that complaints by staff were not being dealt with quickly or positively enough by some first and second-line managers.

During interviews with staff, inspectors heard that they felt there was a tolerance of unacceptable behaviour within the force.

The report says: "HM Inspector was disappointed to hear evidence from individuals within the force that there may be instances of an unacceptable tolerance of bullying, racist or sexist behaviour.

"It was also noted that when such behaviour is brought to the attention of first and second line managers, it is not always correctly and positively dealt with."

It also revealed Hampshire took the longest time to investigate complaints when compared with seven other similar forces from 2001 to 2002.

Chief Constable of Hampshire Paul Kernaghan called in the inspectors in November and January after receiving a number of letters from the public and complaints from staff over professional standards issues.

These were received in connection with three specific incidents of race relations issues within the force.

Hampshire police said the rise in the number of complaints was due to the introduction of a more efficient recording system.

A spokesman said the report was welcomed and the recommendations were being considered.

"The inspection suggested there were examples of bullying, racism and sexism that were not being robustly dealt with by supervisors and first-line managers.

"This was based on the evidence of a small number of officers, and all the cases referred to have either been or are being thoroughly investigated," he said.

Inspectors are currently re-visiting the

professional standards department to see if work has been done to improve 12 key areas as recommended in the report.

Chairman of the Hampshire Black Police Association Inspector Karen Scipio said: "We were involved in the report so the findings are not a surprise to us.

"There had been cases where staff were feeling unhappy about the way some members of the police community had reacted to their

complaints of bullying or harassment. Concerns from both within the force and externally were received.

"However, it must be stressed that these were pockets of problems and my concern is that the whole force will be seen in a negative light, when that is not the case.

"Where problems were identified something is being done about it. Progress is being made in some of those areas, but obviously that must continue."