London: In an effort to bring down crime and cases of racism, Britain is planning to initiate measures to bring about a change in the attitude of those who indulge in such activities, Home Secretary David Blunkett has said.

"We need to change the attitude of those who indulge in crime and racist activities," Blunkett said while at the 16th Asian Trader's annual awards, organised by the Asian Marketing Group at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London last night (Nov 22, 2004).

Blunkett complemented the Asian trading community for their entrepreneurship and hard work, which has brought about a change in the life style in Britain.

Ramniklal Solanki, OBE, editor-in-chief of Asian Trader Magazine, said the awards were set up to showcase the very best in independent retailing and to encourage excellence throughout the sector.

The chief secretary of treasury, Paul Boateng presented the awards at a glittering ceremony.

Dubbed as 'the Oscars of Retailing,' these awards recognize the very best of Britain's corner shops, newsagents, off licences and convenience stores. They carried total cash prizes of 37,500 pounds and are fiercely contested.

The Asian Trader of the year 2004, carrying the top prize of 10,000 pounds went to Romesh Perera of Palmers Green, London.