A RACE equality group is investigating 'blatantly racist' comments issued in a statement by Middlewich Conservative MP Ann Winterton.

The Cheshire, Halton and Warrington Racial Equality Council (CHAWREC) has slammed comments made by Lady Winterton in a personal column in which she says she is thankful the UK is still a predominantly white, Christian country.

Shantele Janes, director of CHAWREC, said the 'irresponsible' comments had now been brought to the attention of the Commission for Racial Equality and to Conservative Party leader MP Michael Howard.

She said: "It is disappointing that MP Ann Winterton has not learned from past mistakes and feels able to once again express her blatantly racist views.

"We welcome sensible debates about how all groups can work together to end terrorism, but this is not a sensible debate, it is a blame laying exercise that is incredibly damaging to race relations."

She added: "The Conservative Party needs to take a firm stance and demonstrate to the people of Britain that racism will not be tolerated in its party - Mrs Winterton has already been given more than enough chances."