EastEnders: how exactly is Phil a 'racist'?

[Redway]

It amazes me that somebody can be accused of racism because they had a disagreement with a black guy. Why, though? Does everyone have to agree on something? Are people not allowed to disagree with someone of a different colour? Even Phil attacking Patrick wouldn't be racist (unless it was done specifically because he was black).

[flamingGalah!]

Phil isn't a racist, that is the point, no one but Ben & Patrick know the truth, so everyone assumes he's having a go at Patrick because he is black...

Though he isn't a racist, Phil is certainly a psychopath!

[RichardWells]

I really wish that Eastenders would bring in a character to square up to Phil and really challenge him as that bloated wind bag has had his way on the show for so long now.

I mean he must be 50+ now, he's getting old.

[Niamh.]

It's a stupid storyline in general. Why wouldn't Phil ask Ben what happened? It's a bit stupid to assume that Patrick would be angry with him for no reason. Also, why is everyone assuming he's racist when he's quite clearly said on numerous occasions that he caught him threatening Ben, it's a weird one, I think they could have done a better job with this, it's a bit far fetched

[Kerry]

He's not. The other residents only have that to go on due to Ben not speaking up

[Niamh.]

He's not. The other residents only have that to go on due to Ben not speaking up

I know he's not, but the question is what made them jump to the conclusion that he's a racist?

[Kerry]

Oh sorry Niamh, I should have quoted the OP. Or the title at least :) I was replying to that. But yes, it is a wonder why he's all of a sudden branded a racist