Minutes - draft

These minutes are draft and are to be agreed.

Minutes of the meeting of the Metropolitan Police Authority held on 26 May 2011 at City Hall, The Queen’s Walk, London, SE1 2AA.

Present

Members

• Kit Malthouse (Chairman)
• Reshard Auladin (Vice Chairman)
• Tony Arbour
• Jennette Arnold
• John Biggs
• Faith Boardman
• Christopher Boothman
• Victoria Borwick
• Valerie Brasse
• Cindy Butts
• James Cleverly
• Dee Doocey
• Toby Harris
• Kirsten Hearn
• Neil Johnson
• Jenny Jones
• Clive Lawton
• Joanne McCartney
• Steve O’Connell
• Caroline Pidgeon
• Amanda Sater
• Graham Speed

MPA officers

• Catherine Crawford (Chief Executive)
• Bob Atkins (Treasurer)
• Jane Harwood (Deputy Chief Executive)

MPS officers

• Sir Paul Stephenson (Commissioner)
• Tim Godwin (Deputy Commissioner)

91. Apologies for absence and announcements

(Agenda item 1)

91.1 Apologies for absence were received from Valerie Shawcross.

92. Declarations of interests

(Agenda item 2)

92.1 No declarations of interest were made.

Resolved – That

1. the list of memberships of functional bodies and London Borough Councils, as set out in the table above, be noted;
2. the gifts and hospitality received by members, as set out on the Authority’s gifts and hospitality register, be noted; and
3. all members declare any other personal or personal prejudicial interests in specific items listed on the agenda over and above items listed in the table above and including any interest arising from gifts or hospitality received in the last 3 years or which are not at the time of this meeting reflected on the Authority’s register of gifts and hospitality.

93. Minutes: 31 March 2011

(Agenda item 3)

93.1 Members considered the minutes of the Authority meeting held on 31 March 2011.

93.2 Regarding minute 84 ‘Acting Commissioner report’ (paragraph 84.41/42), which related to ACPO membership of Masonic lodges. Members asked that it be noted that the Deputy Commissioner had agreed that he would consider if a register of membership of lodges was appropriate.

Resolved – That the minutes of the Authority meeting held on 31 March 2011 be agreed and signed as a correct record.

94. Chairman’s update

(Agenda item 4)

94.1 The Chairman, along with a number of other members firstly welcomed back Sir Paul Stephenson to his first full Authority meeting since his period of absence and he also thanked the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner Yates for their work during the Commissioner’s absence. He then went on to update members on a number of key successes and meetings he had attended since the last meeting of the Authority. These included:

• Congratulating the Commissioner and his team on the successful policing and security operation for the Royal Wedding which had taken place earlier this month and which allowed the day to run smoothly and be enjoyed by Londoners without incident.
• The Chairman also highlighted several of the many items of good news and positive work undertaken by the MPS with the community. He informed members that at the end of April MPS officers and staff had taken place in a charity rugby match that raised £20,000 for Help for Heroes. Lewisham police station held a successful open day in early May and which had seen a record number of almost 1,700 people visited to find out more about what police officers do. Boroughs across London held community engagement activities on 17 May as part of International Day against Homophobia, which aimed to raise awareness of homophobic and transphobic issues.
• The Chairman provided members with an update on the progress of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility (PRSR) Bill. He confirmed that the Bill had entered the House of Lords on 1 April and began Committee stage on 11 May. Debates were being monitored by MPA officers. He confirmed that he continued to attend meetings with the Home Office and updated the ministerial Police Crime Commissioner transition sponsorship board on plans for the London implementation at the meeting on 3 May. He had also met with the new Home Office Permanent Secretary earlier this month and the Home Secretary provided opportunities to discuss the progress of the legislation.
• Since the last full Authority, the Chairman informed members that he had chaired another two of the Joint Engagement meetings (JEMs) focusing on violent crime, this time with Barking and Dagenham and Greenwich boroughs. A number of useful action points for all partners were identified.
• At the beginning of the month the Chairman reported that he had hosted, with the MPS, a summit focusing on the impact of protest on businesses in central London. Businesses, business leaders and agencies charged with managing protest attended. The meeting had proved an opportunity to listen to businesses concerns and developed a number of actions supported by the various partners present. These were directed at developing improved communication, information exchange and intelligence. Westminster City Council has taken the lead and will be forming a strategic group to oversee and progress this work.
• Members were informed that he had opened a successful consultation event that took place at City Hall earlier this month. The event was to seek views on whether or not the MPS should continue to record stop and account encounters. The event was attended by over 150 members of the community and over 40 young people. The verdict from the majority of those that attended was that the MPS should keep recording stop and account to ensure that there is accountability to the public. Many of the young people who attended indicated that had it not been for the event raising the profile of stop and account, they would not have been aware of the importance of the consultation. The information gathered from the event, together with the results of an online survey seeking views on stop and account recording, will be considered before a report is submitted to the MPA with a recommended way forward.
• The Chairman had met with the Chair of Lambeth Community and Police Consultative Group and the Borough Commander of Lambeth to discuss community reaction to the death of David Emmanuel, also known as Smiley Culture. He had also met with the London and South East Commissioner of the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) who wrote to him after the meeting to confirm that whilst the matter was under investigation it is not possible to discuss anything in detail at a Authority meeting.
• At the Authority meeting in March the Chairman agreed to make representations to the Home Secretary on behalf of the MPA to initiate a judicial inquiry into the Daniel Morgan case. The Chairman informed members that he had received a response to his letter earlier in the week. This stated that the MPS and Crown Prosecution Service had embarked on a review of events leading to the collapse of the trial into the murder and that the Government would review any implications for the Serious and Organised Crime and Policing Act around the use of known offenders as witnesses resulting from the review. The letter also stated that it is the Government’s view that a full inquiry is currently unnecessary while the review is taking place.

94.2 The Chairman was asked by members about some of the outcomes from the meeting with business representatives in central London. He informed members that some of the outcomes had included; developing better was of sharing information, both ways, before events take place and possibly allowing representatives from the two main companies who represent most businesses in the West End area to have access to the control room in order to disseminate information to their organisations quicker.

94.3 Members noted that the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) where currently investigating the death of David Emmanuel, also known as Smiley Culture and that it was not possible to discuss anything in detail at a Authority meeting until that investigation had been concluded. However, given the community’s reaction to this case, members asked if the Chairman would consider writing to Mr Emmanuel’s family on the Authority’s behalf to explain the situation. The Chairman in noting the request added that the IPCC had a family liaison unit and would therefore have allocated a family liaison officer to the Emmanuel family. He confirmed that considering the sensitivity of this case the MPA had spoken with the IPCC and it has been confirmed that they are getting full support through a family liaison officer. Members suggested that he may wish to consider writing to the family on the MPA behalf and it be delivered through the family liaison officer.

94.4 Members noted the Chairman’s comments regarding the consultation event on stop and account and reiterated the views of those who had attended that the MPS should continue to record stop and account encounters. They agreed that it was important that this issue comes to the Authority in order that a recommended way forward can be debated.

Resolved – That the report be received.

95. Commissioner's report

(Agenda item 5)

95.1 The Commissioner thanked members for their welcome back and also recorded his thanks to his colleagues who had covered his post in his absence.

PC Nigel Albuery

95.2 In introducing his report, the Commissioner provided the Authority with an update on PC Nigel Albuery, who had been stabbed whilst on duty in Croydon. The Commissioner informed members that he was pleased to report that PC Albuery condition had stabilised and had been discharged from hospital. The Commissioner added that this incident acted as a reminder of the dangers that police officers and police staff faced on a daily basis.

G20 – PC Simon Harwood

95.3 The Commissioner informed members that he wished to repeat the comments made by DAC Rose Fitzpatrick following the corners verdict into the death on Ian Tomlinson that this was a matter of deep regret, irrespective of any future judicial process or disciplinary process. He reiterated that it had always been the intention of the MPS to be open and transparent in this matter and the MPS would continue to cooperate with the Director of Public Prosecutions and the IPCC.

Royal Wedding

95.4 The Commissioner welcomed the comments from the Chairman on the policing of the Royal Wedding. He confirmed that it had been a complex operation with up to a million people in attendance. He wanted to record his thanks to his staff, lead by DAC Lynne Owens, who had contributed to the success of the operation.

Public Order

95.5 Whilst noting the success of the policing of the Royal Wedding, the Commissioner reiterated the right to peaceful protest which was a fundamental part of democracy and the MPS had been quick to say when they had got it wrong, as happened at Millbank in 2010. However, a ‘council of perfection’ often demanded in the media was unrealistic as there was no such thing as a risk free society. He stressed the importance of guarding against the narrative that was talked about that protest can take place, that there is a perfect intelligence system and guarantee no incident would take place.

95.6 With this in mind the Commissioner stated that, particularly as the MPS faces economic constraints, it would have to work hard at maintaining as many police officers as it could. He felt that this was important as London had to be in a position to have a ‘surge capability’ to respond to the 4,500 public events and often some a short notice

Performance

Confidence data

95.7 It was noted that the MPS had just published its end of year confidence figures as part of the public attitude survey. In addition to the information contain in his report to the Authority, the Commissioner added that the figure showed that 66% of Londoners thought that there local police were doing a good or an excellent job, which was a 4% increase on last year. He added that the performance for the quarter period four (January to March 2011), had been very encouraging with 70% of people thinking that local police did a good or excellent job compared with 64% the previous year.

Performance - Generally

95.8 Turning to performance generally, the Commissioner reminded members that there were now a smaller amount of key performance indicators (KPI) for the financial year. As this was the first month in to the financial year with these KPI figures and they were not that meaningful as this stage. The Commissioner therefore briefly touched upon last year’s figures.

95.9 The Commissioner suggested that the headline was the reduction of notifiable offences and recorded offences. Although this was by a small percentage it equated to large number almost 7,000 fewer total reported crimes. Also pleasing was the progress made on the number of serious offences committed, with violence with injury which was down almost 60% or 4,330 offences. The Commissioner also added that gun crime had also reduced by 759 offences, with gun crime being discharged also down.

95.10 Regarding tackling serious and acquisitive crime, the Commissioner stated that knife crime and youth violence remain areas of concern with violence up by 81 offences. Knife crime was up by some 723 offences, although injury with a knife was down. He reminded members that last summer knife crime and youth violence went up and the MPS reacted with local borough having developed bespoke action plans and working with other agencies to elevate this increase. Despite this, the Commissioners confirmed that there remained pressure around this issue and in particular in relation to robbery offences and burglary. He informed members that despite some encouraging reductions in reported crime he could not ignore these pressures and he had asked Territorial Policing to ensure that there was significant asset devoted to this area. The MPS were still working through detail but were going to mount a significant operation drawing on resources from across the organisation. He was determined to try to make an impact on reversing the trends around robbery association with knife crime and robbery. Once final details had been confirmed he would provide members with a briefing note on this operation.

95.11 Regretfully, the Commissioner reported that since the Authority had last meet there had been two further teenage homicides, which so far this calendar year totalled six. Whilst teenage homicides were down, there had been ten at this period last year; the Commissioner reiterated that this remained six deaths to many.

Budget

95.12 In addition to challenges in performance the Commissioner reminded members of the significant financial challenge that the MPS faced. The approved budget for the financial year was based on delivering £163 million of savings against a background of increasing pressure. He added that the MPS needed to continue to do better for less and was currently in the process of developing the 2012/13 budget and business plan. In doing so, and understanding the constraints the organisation was under, it was important that a balanced policing model was maintained and which reflected the challenges the MPS faced, ensuring that resources were aimed at essential areas. He confirmed that with this in mind it was expected that spending would be reduced by approximately £600 million by 2014/15. The £600 referred to included £323 already identified, but there was a gap and there remained a challenge around that gap. He added that with Management Board colleagues he would be working on delivering an effective business and operational model and only then reducing operational officers, but with an aim of maintaining operational capacity.

Olympics/Paralympic Games

95.13 The Commissioner informed members that with less than a year till the games commencing, the MPS were working hard on preparations for this challenging event. He noted the collaborative work with the Authority on this and thanked members, particularly Dee Doocey as Chair of the Olympics Sub-Committee as well as AC Chris Alison for their contributions during a very bust time. He added that a group of international Olympic observers attended some of the security planning for the royal wedding and had been extremely impressed with the operation, describing it as flawless. He concluded by stating that this was what the Service was striving for regarding the Olympics to ensure there was a world class security operation.

Issues raised by members

95.14 Members had submitted a number of questions in advance of the meeting.

95.15 In order to allow full consideration of a number of other items on the agenda a number of members agreed to receive a written response to their questions to the Commissioner. These included the submitted questions on:

• ANPR camera locations
• Freedom of Information
• Victim Support in Enfield
• MPS arrests of children
• Crime growth in areas around nightclub/night time economy areas
• Policing Bill
• Police cuts
• DNA Database

ACPO officers’ gifts and hospitality register

95.16 Members asked a number of questions relating to the MPS/ACPO officers’ gifts and hospitality register. These included:

• In line with the existing practice of the Mayor and the London Assembly, would the MPS publish online, for all MPS ACPO officers, a rolling register of all gifts and hospitality accepted, detailing the date, description, and the donor/provider?
• Would the Commissioner also make this available for the last three financial years?
• Members noted that following a recent request for details of senior officers gifts and hospitality details it was noted that details of AC Yates meetings and hospitality received by News International appeared to have been redacted. Members asked why this information contain redactions and thus ensuring that full disclosure had not been made. They asked if the information could be provided without redactions?

95.17 The Commissioner confirmed that the ACPO gifts and hospitality register would be published on a quarterly basis and that the information for this would include that for the last three financial years and it did not include any redactions. He added that both the Deputy Commissioner and his gifts and hospitality were examined by the MPA.

95.18 Regarding the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner’s gifts and hospitality, the Chief Executive, agreed to provide members with the details for mechanism for doing this and review this to ensure that full information was being provided on the register.

95.19 The Commissioner, noted members comments regarding the Director of Human Resources scrutinising the register for all ACPO officers and that he had now left the MPS it would appear that this has not been done for some time. He agreed to ensure that this was undertaken.

95.20 Members asked the Commissioner that as there was a disclosure in the ACPO register by an officer that he had a personal relationship with an individual and would he expect officers to obtain authority before meeting organisations or individuals that were subject to criminal investigations. The Commissioner, whilst not suggesting the individual concerned was under investigation, urged caution that the discussion did not name or potentially identify an individual that may be subject to any potential criminal investigation. He stated that his expectations were that officer would use wisdom and judgement when meeting people and to aim to be able to justify those meetings. He did not expect officers to seek authority, but did expect judgement to be exercised. He added that the specific meeting being discussed was a private social engagement, which made it slightly more difficult, as often as such event you may not be aware of everyone in attendance and therefore declaration was difficult. He confirmed that the Deputy Commissioner had undertaken due diligence on this matter.

Human trafficking

95.21 The Commissioner was asked how many investigations are ongoing across the MPS into human trafficking, and of those how many involve the trafficking of children.

95.22 The Commissioner confirmed that the MPS remained committed to providing a high quality response to all allegations of human trafficking. He confirmed that there were more staff than ever working on this issue, currently 37 and this had seen positives results with more arrest, charges and convictions last year. This remained a significant issue and also included team reviews of all cases of trafficking recorded in the anywhere in the MPS area to ensure opportunities for investigation had not been missed. At this current time the team were investigating 46 cases of which eight related specifically to children and there was in place a dedicated team which works to support victims and communities.

95.23 The Commissioner agreed to provide members with details on how many of the 37 dedicated team in human trafficking were involved in working specifically on the trafficking of children. He added that it was difficult to be specific around under reporting and that if a report was received of an allegation of child trafficking then it would be automatically assessed to see if it could be investigated and if so investigated to the best of the services ability.

95.24 Members asked the Commissioner what input had the MPS had into the Government’s Human Trafficking Strategy. He was sure the MPS had provided an input but agreed to provide members with specific details.

Missing from sex register

95.25 Following a recent report that 121 registered sex offenders had gone missing from the London area. Members asked the Commissioner if he would provide a breakdown of the offences for which these people had been convicted and what actions are the MPS taking to locate these offenders.

95.26 The Commissioner confirmed that as of the 5 May 2011 the number of Registered Sex Offenders managed by the MPS was 4,665. This was a rise of approximately 25% since September 2009. Of these Registered Sex Offenders, 118 are currently missing. This had remained more or less static despite the increasing numbers of Registered Sex Offenders. He then provided members with a breakdown of their qualifying convictions and these included; 26 sexual and/or indecent assault on persons under 16 years, 16 sexual and/or indecent assault on persons over 16. He added that there were 29 sexual assault that did not go to penetration, 30 rapes, 13 exposures; four possessions of indecent photos. Six further offence types including voyeurism, unlawful sexual intercourse, inciting prostitution, possession of indecent photographs and outrage and public decency. He also added that these numbers would fluctuate on a daily basis.

95.27 He added that this number fluctuates on a daily basis and that as soon as it had been established that an offender was missing their details are circulated to police forces UK wide and to the UK Border Agency and lines of enquiry lines identified to trace and arrest them. All actions were reviewed by a Detective Inspector within 24 hours, within 7 days by a Detective Chief Inspector and every 28 days by a Superintendent. This was to ensure lines of enquiry are being progressed and sufficient resource allocated. The Commissioner added that registered sex offenders MPS wide were also monitored and dip sampled centrally (by Operation Jigsaw) to ensure consistency and provide advice. He informed members that the intelligence indicated that 45 of these offenders may be living outside the UK. In these circumstances the MPS had a process to liaise with the relevant national force to share intelligence and consider extradition.

95.28 Members asked for further details about those offenders who were living outside the UK. The Commissioner stated that most other countries do not have a register or any systems for dealing with these people particularly if they have already been dealt with for their crimes. This was made more difficult as the MPS had to deal with different standards and legislation. However, he stressed that where an offender was located abroad the MPS worked with the Crown Prosecution Service on the most appropriate extradition process. The Commission added that the number of offenders missing from the register had stayed more or less static, despite a 25% increase in registered offenders since legislation had commenced in 1997. Of those missing in the UK some are missing for a short period some for longer periods and the Commissioner reiterated that when they go missing details are circulated to police forces UK-wide and the UK Border Agency. In response to members, the Commissioner confirmed that when an offender goes missing those that are considered high risk are assessed/prioritised urgently.

Safer neighbourhood teams/ Front counter vacancies

95.29 Members asked if the Commissioner would provide details on how many officers in the response team pilots in Lambeth and Brent had been redeployed in total, and how many of the total were now working with Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT).

95.30 Members were informed that the response pilots had involved the ‘realignment’ of a total of 255 police officers and that they remain on Lambeth and Brent BOCU and had not been redeployed elsewhere. The Commissioner outlined how the officers had been redeployed in a number of ways and stated that they were not just working with SNTs but had also been used, for example, to staff permanent custody teams and testing other aspects of the policing model. In Lambeth, 78 PCs were now working alongside their SNTs in Local Policing Team’s and that these officers were led by the relevant SNT sergeant. In Brent, 12 sergeants and 62 PCs were currently working as part of two Local Policing Teams. These teams had a number of responsibilities (such as delivery of appointments) but are also designed to operate in support of SN action to tackle crime and ASB. The Commissioner added that these pilots were testing new ways of managing emergency and non-emergency response. Comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of this approach is a core requirement of each pilot.

95.31 Some members raised concerns that some of the officers in the pilots in Brent and Lambeth were not undertaking front line SNT services, which was the understanding that they would, but were being used to undertake detention or front counter duties. The Commissioner stated that the aim was to see how the MPS can respond better and do that for less with less people and maintain operational capability.

95.32 Regarding the police officers filling counter positions rather than deploying Police Community Support Officers (PCSO), the Commissioner was asked if he thought this was good value for money and had he provided any guidance to borough commanders on redeployment to fill front line counters.

95.33 The Deputy Commissioner confirmed that it was not the aim to use fully fit police officers for front counter duties, but there were occasions were police officers had covered vacancies or due to absences or abstractions. He confirmed that there was a full review being undertaken around front counters which would have to consider the current financial climate and how best to operate front counters in terms of resources and issues such as opening times. The Deputy Commissioner stated that he was aware that police stations were iconic buildings and created the reassurance of a police presence, but there was work to be done in reassuring that there was a police presence if a station front counter was not open. In addition, as part of the review a key point that needed to be included was how the service could react to issues such as large public order events and provide reliance at borough level. The review, once complete would be shared with the Authority. He added that were possible, police officers on restricted and recuperative duties where currently used to support front counter duties and he thought this may be the case in some boroughs. Some members questioned that officers on restricted duties were being used and that police officers were undertaking these duties at the expense of police and questioned if this was value for money

Review of Public Access 'Channels'/ Contacting the Metropolitan Police Survey 2011

95.34 Following its launch on 11 April, members asked the Commissioner if he would provide details on what the MPS had done to publicise their Review of Public Access 'Channels' since its launched. The Commissioner was also asked if he would commit to publicising the raw response data as soon as the consultation closes so that MPA members could see what Londoner's thought of the plans. He was also asked if he was satisfied with the Contacting the Metropolitan Police Survey 2011.

95.35 The Commissioner confirmed that the MPS had launched the consultation on public access channels in April with the intention of seeking the views of the public and partners on accessing police services. As part of this process the MPS had written to council leaders, local authority chief executives, MPs, MPA members and London Assembly members. Boroughs have been engaging with their strategic partners and local groups and people to encourage participation, including SN Ward Panels, Independent Advisory Groups (IAG) and Neighbourhood Watch schemes. The Commissioner confirmed that at a corporate level, the MPS had also engaged with the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transsexual, Disability and Race IAGs and produced an online survey hosted on the MPS website, as well as the 32 borough websites. Boroughs had promoted the survey widely, through local papers and emails to local businesses and residents. All of our 630 SNTs have been raising awareness through their public meetings where paper copies of the survey were made available.

95.36 The Commissioner stated that the MPS remain committed to providing the public access to policing services through a front counter style service as well as through other means including the internet, Safer Neighbourhoods teams surgeries, telephone investigation, appointments and police information points. This access would be provided at times and locations the public need it and is aimed at delivering improved customer service. He confirmed that the results would be published and raw data provided to members if required and that published results would form part of a report to the Authority’s Strategic and Operational Policing Committee in September.

95.37 Members in noting the Commissioner’s comments expressed some concerns relating the questionnaire and survey. In particular, some members had received a number concerns from constituents that the questionnaire was confusing. The Commissioner noted the concerns that had been raised and stressed that it was not the intention of the consultation to take decisions as to which front counters to close or not. He added that it was about a broader issue on how do people want to access policing services in the future and recognising that demographics and technology is changing. He added that as there are an increasing number of people reporting crime on line and there is a reduction in use of front line counter services and that there may have to be some difficult decisions. These decisions had not been made as yet and the Commissioner accepted that there may have to be some misunderstandings, which he regretted, particularly around the idea of a minimum service in boroughs. He agreed with members that co-location was an interesting option. He also reiterated that the questionnaire and survey were not abut closing police stations and the Service needed to look at the results to understand best ways of serving London which had different needs and different communities.

95.38 Members asked and the Commissioner agreed that the results of the questionnaire and survey would be provided to members on a borough by borough basis.

Requests from Government Ministers/Case Reviews/Madeleine McCann case review

95.39 Members asked the Commissioner a number of interlinked questions on

• How did he respond to requests from Government Ministers for matters to be investigated.
• Following the announcement that the MPS would be undertaking a review of this case, following a requested by the Prime Minister and Home Secretary. Member asked the Commissioner what his understanding was that in future an elected police and crime commissioner would be able to request that the MPS to investigate specific cases in this way?
• Clarification was sought on the criteria used when deciding whether to reinvestigate/review cases initially conducted by other police force?

95.40 The Commissioner confirmed that he had received a request from the Home Secretary, which was supported by the Prime Minister, that the Metropolitan Police bring their expertise to review the Madeline McCann case.

95.41 He informed members that it was not unusual for the MPS to be asked to assist in this way and in all such requests, the following considerations apply, based on professional judgement

• It is it within our locus?
• Can the MPS add value with our expertise?
• Is this a skill that the MPS is uniquely or better placed to provide than another force? In many instances (such as this one) the MPS were asked for our ‘review’ expertise - in smaller forces they often ask outside forces to review their investigations, the MPS reviews its own investigations along with those of other forces. The MPS have this skill.
• Is this a case where the international reputation of the MPS and New Scotland Yard can be of assistance in opening doors?
• Is there funding available?
• Do we have the capacity to do this? Recently, we have seen a significant drop in homicide, and this together with the current financial climate meant that SCD had plans to decrease the number of Murder Investigation Teams. The funding available for us to take on this work, enabling the MPS to retain some specialist skills that we would not otherwise have done.
• Is there support from the Government? The MPS do not get involved in another country’s jurisdiction unless we have been specifically asked to.

95.42 The Commissioner confirmed that on balance and, having taken all of these considerations into account, he had decided it was appropriate that the MPS respond positively to the request for assistance. He informed members that it was not unusual for the MPS to take on a piece of work such as this as the experience and expertise of the MPS has historically been used on a number of occasions to investigate and review investigations of other forces, both in the UK and abroad.

95.43 He was aware that some members of this Authority have voiced concerns that such a request breaches operational independence. Given conversations going on currently about the Police and Social Responsibility Bill, operational independence was rarely far from his mind, and he informed members that they would not be surprised that he had sought to reassure himself that undertaking this request would not be improper. He confirmed that this request was not that the MPA take over the hunt for Madeline McCann, but that the experts in our Specialist Crime Command look over the case and see if there are any gaps or any points of view that others may not have yet considered. The Commissioner added that some have questioned what this means for other cases of missing children. And he stated that it is that the MPS has undertaken reviews of other such cases and would always consider requests. This was a unique case however, with significant public interest. Under the circumstances, with the MPS able to offer expertise and funds available to allow the work to be undertaken, He felt it entirely appropriate to agree to the Government’s request.

95.44 In noting members’ comments, members asked if in such situations it would be more suitable to have a more formal protocol for making such decisions. The Commissioner reiterated that he felt the considerations based on professional judgement as outlined were acceptable and that he would not in such cases part with his impartiality or operational independence when making such decisions. However, he noted members’ comments and would consider if he needed to look a more formal approach.

95.45 The Commissioner confirmed that the MPS had received some additional funding to undertake the review of this specific case, but was unable to provide full details as the scoping exercise had yet to be undertaken. He confirmed that the Home Office will have oversight of the review and that payment was expected to be quarterly in arrears. He did not feel that the request to review this case would impinge on other investigations.

95.46 Members sought further comment on other cases and how they are selected to be reviewed, if at all. The Commissioner confirmed that it usually occurred following a direct request, from Government, through the Foreign Office or other agencies and then the previously mentioned considerations would be considered.

Abducted/Missing Children

95.47 Members asked a number of questions about abducted or missing children and these included:

• how many unsolved missing (believed abducted) children cases have there been in the MPS district in the last 30 years?
• How many of these are ‘live’ as in still open to investigation and how many are closed?
• What criteria do you use to decide to close an abducted/missing child case?
• Has there ever been a service-wide review of abducted/missing children such as happens regularly for homicide reviews where a range of cases are looked at from an organizational as well as individual point of view?

95.48 The Commissioner informed members that the was a need to have care when discussing this matter as there was a range of issues around missing children and a lot of concerned families.

95.49 He stated that ‘stranger’ abduction of children is extremely uncommon, with the majority of child abductions being intra-familial and not committed by strangers. The term child applied to anyone under the age of 18. It included a wide spectrum of offences, from a divorced parent taking a child abroad on holiday (without the consent of the court or without the permission of the other parent) to a child snatched from the street. Unsolved cases are not closed and are not subject to an ‘active phase’ of the investigation. He informed members that if murder was suspected, then such ‘inactive’ cases would be subjected to reviews on a two yearly basis. All cases of murder and serious crime are investigated by the Homicide and Serious Command, which were unsolved, are subject to a formal panel. This panel is chaired by the Commander Homicide and the Detective Chief Superintendent and other members include the IAG, Murder Review Group and senior investigators. Cases are regarded as ‘inactive’ when there are no further viable lines of enquiry to complete.

95.50 The Commissioner informed members that stranger abductions, which are extremely rare, are addressed at a wider national level. Such cases (e.g. Shannon Matthews) are discussed at a national level via the Homicide Working Group and fed back through the national SIO forums.

Child arrests in London

95.51 Recent figures showed the number of child arrests in London was 46,067 last year, 46,546 in 2009, and 49,292 in 2008. Members asked the Commissioner:

• What are your views on the figures in the MPS?
• Is there a reason these figures have decreased in the past two years?
• Could we be debriefed on the background to these figures? For example, could we be given information on:
• Which parts of London these arrests took place;
• What these children in the two sets of figures (14-16 and under 14) were arrested for;
• How many were convicted;
• How many of those arrested, were then arrested again for another offence;
• How many of these children were considered ‘at-risk’ by authorities prior to their arrest.

95.52 The Commissioner was pleased to inform members that there had been a reduction in arrest figures for London’s children and young people since 2008. He informed members that he wanted to see a reduction in crime, including youth crime which had become a challenging issue, but there have been successes such as Operation Blunt. He also informed members that it was important to see a reduction in the number of young people entering the criminal justice system and prevention work with partners has been particularly important in achieving this, given the limitations to resources. He added that it was an overarching aim to reduce the unnecessary criminalisation of young people and to this end a number of initiatives have been implemented within the MPS which have no doubt contributed to a continuing decline in arrests: These included:

• Triage
• The Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)
• Youth Restorative Disposals

95.53 In noting the successes, the Commissioner believed that there was no room for complacency and a strong shared need to maximise our efforts if young people are to be persuaded from making the wrong choices in life. He felt that initiatives such as the Mayor’s Time for Action programme play an important role in the galvanising of prevention activity. He also outlined details of ‘Triage’ as a good example of reducing people’s involvement in crime and reducing the need to arrest

Geotime mapping software

95.54 It is understood that the MPS have purchased this mapping software which enables comprehensive information about an individual’s movements and communications to be aggregated. Members asked what governance arrangements have been/ would be put in place concerning the use of this software (e.g. security clearance levels for access and/or authorisation)? Members also asked:

• Has the Met already begun to use the Geotime software?
• What sort of uses do you envisage using the Geotime software for?
• Who will authorise the tracking of ‘suspects’, and what supervisory and governance arrangements will cover the use of this software? How will clearance to officers to use the software be issued and their use of it supervised?

95.55 The Commissioner confirmed that this software was currently not in operational use within the MPS but it is in the process of being evaluated and as such the MPS have purchased five licenses following the expiry of a free trial. The software brought together existing information held by the MPS on the location and timing of past events into a single, visual format to help build a clearer picture of what happened. Currently this information is stored but analysed using two different software applications. The MPS are not using it to gather information that it does not already have access to.

95.56 The Commissioner confirmed that if a decision is made to adopt the use of Geotime following the evaluation, the MPS would adhere to a series of stringent processes and standards that govern the introduction of any new technology. These would include:

• In terms of security, the MPS would adhere to Government standards relating to the governance of computer systems - Risk Management and Accreditation of Information Systems (RMADS).
• In terms of information, full governance arrangements would be considered in consultation with the MPS Public Access Office. Geotime could be used to analyse existing information - all the information the MPS use had already been gathered in line with Data Protection Act and Freedom of Information legislation.
• In terms of how we would use the software, at this stage the MPS have not decided whether to adopt this technology and if so how we will use it, this is dependent on the outcome of the evaluation and its potential.

95.57 He confirmed that there would need to be an evaluation process and he agreed to share that evaluation process with the Authority.

Emergency Equipment

95.58 In light of the issues raised by a recent IPCC investigation, members asked the Commissioner if he could confirm whether there would be a review of the arrangements regarding the lack of routine provision of emergency entry equipment in police vehicles.

95.59 The Commissioner stated that he did not think that it was realistic to place emergency entry equipment in every police vehicle as there was an issue around how many vehicles the MPS had, training staff and then replacing equipment when it was required to do so. However, the Commissioner felt that the key issue was to ensure that this equipment was in place in boroughs and he had asked AC Ian McPherson to look to see if this arrangement was in place. The Commissioner agreed to provide feedback to members on this matter.

ESD/ICEFLO

95.60 Members asked the Commissioner if he would confirm that there are sufficient ESDs (roadside breathalyser) and ICEFLO (cameras) available to fully equip the patrol vehicle fleet?

95.61 The Commissioner stated that there was sufficient available equipment for patrolling officers to have 24/7 access to ESD and ICEFLO but again it was not possible to equip every vehicle with one. He confirmed that access is available at every borough.

Reducing Bureaucracy

95.62 The Mayor and the Home Secretary had indicated that they want to reduce and eliminate targets and red-tape. Police officers say they want to get rid of targets and red-tape. In addition local residents state that they also wanted to reduce and eliminate of targets and red-tape, as do police officer and the Commissioner. However, all anecdotal evidence suggests that there has been no substantive reduction in targets and red tape within the MPS. The Commissioner was asked what was preventing this reduction.

95.63 The Commissioner noted that the question around bureaucracy had been raised at full Authority and other fora on a number of occasions. He stated that whilst he opposed unnecessary bureaucracy there had to be an acknowledgement that there would always be some level of bureaucracy to operate effectively.

95.64 He added that when questions have been previously asked about bureaucracy the focus had been on the national impetus for driving down bureaucracy and that work continued as the ACPO Reducing Bureaucracy programme focused on reducing the bad bureaucracy relating to risk, the criminal justice system, the impact of legislation, partnerships and internal processes. He reminded members that the MPS had undertaken some of the practical steps to reduce bureaucratic procedures and improve productivity, such as the introduction of Integrated Prosecution Teams and the increased use of Virtual Courts. There had also been work around developing technical equipment such as personal digital assistants (PDA in order to reduce bureaucracy). At a strategic level, maximising productivity was at the heart of what the MPS are trying to achieve and he confirmed that the MPS are closely looking at all its corporate procedures and processes to ensure the business model was as lean as is practically possible. He concluded by stating that a fundamental aspect of this was making sure the MPS are fit for purpose and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy was an important part of this as we analyse all of the MPS core processes and work continued on this matter.

95.65 In relation to PDA members asked how these and other electronic devices could help maximise efficiencies. The Commissioner confirmed that the PDA were helping to reduce bureaucracy, but he added a note of caution as at the moment there were six applications and there are issues around training and affordability.

Fortnum and Mason arrests and bail conditions

95.66 Members asked the Commissioner how many of the protesters arrested at Fortnum and Mason for aggravated trespass were given the bail condition of not being allowed in the area of Westminster and what was the justification for these conditions?

95.67 The Deputy Commissioner confirmed that 145 individuals were arrested on 26 March and 138 were charged with Aggravated Trespass in relation to Fortnum and Mason. Three further arrests in relation to Fortnum and Mason had resulted in charges for theft criminal damage and aggravated trespass respectively. The next court date is 27th June 2011 at City of Westminster Magistrates Court and he confirmed that the MPS were working with CPS in reaching the decision to charge and continue to do so.

95.68 The Deputy Commissioner confirmed that of the 148 arrested in Fortnum and Mason, 67 were given bail conditions to prevent further disorder. All have now had their bail conditions lifted either prior to, or at their first appearance. A number of other bail conditions were imposed on those arrested and/or charged with violence and damage after the disorder on 26th March 2011.

95.69 The Deputy Commissioner agreed to provide members with details of how many charges had been dropped for people who had been arrested for aggravated trespass.

Year end crime statistics

95.70 On Friday 15/04/11, Members were sent a bulletin of the MPS press release on year end crime figures, complete with quotes from Commander Simon Pountain and Mayor Johnson. However, members were only given the accompanying statistics by request and the figures were not yet available on the MPS website. Members asked the Commissioner, in future, please can members automatically be sent the statistics before or at the same time as the press release.

95.71 The Chairman agreed that, regarding statistics, members should be automatically sent these,

Hollow Point ammunition

95.72 The Commissioner was asked what was the criteria you used to decide to purchase hollow point ammunition for use by fire arms officers in the MPS. He was also asked had anyone ever been injured or killed by ‘collateral damage’ caused by a bullet hitting the target and then passing through or bouncing off. Members asked what public messages are being put in place to manage the message that the MPS are now deploying ammunition deemed not to be suitable for use in warfare.

95.73 In response to the first part of the question the Commissioner confirmed that the MPS had carried out extensive testing of the ammunition looking to ensure the best balance between limiting over penetration and incapacitating hostile subjects with minimal fragmentation and increased reliability and performance. The aim of this extensive testing regime was to identify the most appropriate ammunition for the different calibre of weapons. The MPs also considered value for money, contract life consistency and legality as part of the procurement process.

95.74 Regarding if anybody had been killed by ‘collateral damage’ the Commissioner informed members that there have been no incidents reported following the use of firearms by the MPS where an individual has been injured or killed by a ‘bullet’ hitting the target and then passing through or defection. He added, however, based on scientific evidence the MPS know that there was a risk of this happening. However, there was a legal and moral obligation to officers and any individual who might get caught up in such an incident to minimise the risk around the circumstances in which this could happen. Although this had never happened to a police officer, there have been cases where criminals have used firearms and injuries have been caused by over penetration and ricochet. He added that in any MPS firearms operation the primary aim is the protection of life and public safety. This new ammunition currently offers the best risk management in relation to over penetration. Confirmation was also given that the MPS had consulted the Armed Police Reference Group which is multi-agency forum with representation from interested parties ranging from faith groups to disability forums. In addition, a press briefing had been given to the Crime Reporters Association, the new contract was openly reported in the Evening Standard and the Commissioner had also given radio interviews on this.

95.75 The Commissioner also wanted to make it clear that it was key to point out that the MPS is not deploying ammunition deemed unsuitable for use in warfare. A hollow point is not a ‘dum dum’ bullet. He added that from a policing perspective the need is to stop a subject immediately due to an immediate threat to life and also to minimise the risk to other persons through over penetration. This hollow round was designed to stay in one piece and not fragment thereby reducing the challenges should medical aftercare become pertinent.

95.76 In relation to costs the Commissioner confirmed that the testing procedure, which covered an intensive 12-week period done under controlled, scientific conditions, cost £80,000. He provided members with details of the testing procedure which included extensive ballistic testing into ballistic gelatine and also through barriers such as double glazing; windscreen glass; simulated vehicle body work and heavy duty clothing materials. In response to members the Commissioner could not confirm if this ammunition was the same as that tested in New York or elsewhere

Other questions raised by members

Arrest in connection with the Murder of Stephen Lawrence

95.77 Members noted that there had been two arrests made in connection with the murder of Stephen Lawrence. Whilst this matter was at an early stage, members welcomed the possibility that there was a chance of justice for the Lawrence family.

Stabbing of an Officer in Croydon

95.78 Members noted the previous comments made by the Chairman regarding the stabbing of PC Albuery and wished to also record their best wishes for a speedy recovery acknowledging the day to day challenges that police officers face.

Video of MPS officer

95.79 Members raised concerns that a video of relating to an ongoing disciplinary case had been passed to the media. The Commissioner informed members that there was an investigation into how this happened he could not add any further comment at this stage.

95.80 Those issues that the Commissioner undertook to report back on to members have been circulated in the form of an addendum report and are appended to these minutes at Appendix 1.

Resolved – That the report be received.

96. Race and Faith Inquiry

(Agenda item 6a and Agenda item 6b)

6a Update on recommendations & 6b Multi point entry

96.1 At the Authority meeting in November 2010, members considered a report that set out the recommendations arising from the Race and Faith Inquiry. The Chief Executive now introduced a report that provided an update on the progression of those recommendations.

96.2 In addition to the report on the progression of the Race and Faith Inquiry report recommendations (Agenda item 6a), members received a report a report that considered options for ‘multi point entry into the police service.

96.3 Cindy Butts, as chair of the Race and Faith Inquiry stated that there had been some steady progress made in taking forward the recommendations of the Inquiry. She added that in some cases it was noted that the MPS had gone further than some of the recommendations and that was welcomed. She raised the issue of lateral development, which she felt could be develop further and issues around capacity of the Diversity and Citizen Focus Directorate, which she felt could be used more as an internal inspection. She felt that the Directorate could continue to be used as a centre for good practice, but also used to focus on those areas that require further work in the organisation. Another issue that she raised was as the Authority came to an end how issues from the Inquiry where going to be picked up and how they would remain legacy issues in any ne governance arrangements.

96.4 Members welcomed the reports and in relation to the Multi point entry report (Agenda item 6b) drew attention to the suggestion of ‘rank skipping’. This suggestion was broadly supported, particularly if all entrance continued to service some time as a constable. It was noted that some members wanted to see reassurance that whilst some should be allowed to ‘rank skip’, that the organisation has in place sufficient ability to ensure that an individual does not have significant knowledge/experience gaps. Members also suggested consideration of this proposal should be supported by the development of independent mentoring. It was noted in the report that ‘the challenge is to ensure equalities are mainstream through the new MOPC operating model’. Members felt that whilst it was acceptable to mainstream, they needed to be satisfied that internal work was being undertaken and on how the recommendations from the Inquiry were going to be taken forward.

96.5 The Commissioner also broadly supported the need to be more creative about direct entry, but added that the organisation needed to be careful how to get the right levels of experience and ensure that those people are doing the job and not put in position where they cannot discharge often challenging responsibilities.

96.6 In terms of how these issues are taken forward, the Chairman confirmed that the MPA had initiated the national debate by holding the symposium early this year. Multi point entry would require legislative and regulatory change and therefore this will be fed into the next stage of the ‘Windsor Review’.

96.7 Members asked if rank skipping required either legislative or regulatory change. The Commissioner stated that it did not and reminded members of the high potential development scheme, which was more about speeding individuals through the service as opposed to ‘rank skipping’. He felt that this was an opportunity to develop a national scheme that was more creative.

Resolved– That

1. the approach to the implementation of the Inquiry Panel’s recommendations set out in paragraph 4 of agenda item 6a be noted; and
2. the approach to the next stage of multi-point entry proposals set out at paragraphs 4-6 of the report and in Appendix 1 of agenda item 6b be agreed.

97. The MPA’s committee structure

(Agenda item 7)

97.1 Until such time as the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill is enacted, the Authority is operating as business as usual. Therefore, the Authority is required to hold an annual meeting and this will be held in June.

97.2 Members considered a report that sought agreement that the Authority until such time as the Bill is enacted the current committee structure, as given at Appendix 1 to the report, be confirmed. In addition, members were also asked to inform officers of any changes they wish to make at the annual meeting to positions such as chairs of and membership of committees and sub committees, together with all other appointments.

Resolved – That

1. the current committee structure be confirmed; and
2. members inform officers of any proposed changes to positions of chairs and membership of committees and sub-committees, together with all other appointments prior to the annual meeting.

98. Reports from committees

(Agenda item 8)

98.1 The Authority received a report outlining key issues that had been considered at recent Authority Committee meetings. The report covered the following meetings:

• Finance and Resources Committee – 24 March 2011
• Standards Committee – 29 March 2011
• Finance and Resources Committee – 14 April 2011
• Communities, Equality and People Committee – 5 May 2011

Resolved – That the report be received.

99. Any other urgent business

(Agenda item 12)

99.1 There were no items of urgent business.

The meeting closed at 12:36 p.m.

Appendix 1

Addendum to the Commissioner's report

Report by the Commissioner

This report follows up on the actions and commitments made verbally by the Commissioner at the Full Authority meeting on 26 May 2011.

The Commissioner committed to provide an update to Members on the following issues:

• Whether a register of Membership to Masonic Lodges was appropriate.
• Written response to questions from Members
• Operation to tackle robbery offences and burglary
• Human trafficking
• Geotime mapping software
• Emergency Equipment
• Fortnum and Mason arrests and charges

Whether a register of Membership to Masonic Lodges was appropriate

1. Members asked for further information following the discussion at the Full Authority Meeting in March 2011. Information will be provided to the MPA by 28th June 2011.

Written response to questions from Members

2. Members asked for written responses regarding the below questions

• ANPR camera locations
• Freedom of Information
• Victim Support in Enfield
• MPS arrests of children
• Crime growth in areas around nightclub/night time economy areas
• Police cuts
• DNA Data base

The responses are to be sent to the MPA by 28 June 2011.

Operation to tackle robbery offences and burglary

3. The Commissioner agreed to provide Members with a briefing on Operation Target. This has been provided to the MPA.

Human Trafficking

4. Members asked how many of the dedicated human trafficking team are involved in working specifically on the trafficking of children and the MPS input into Government’s Human Trafficking Strategy. Information will be provided to the MPA by 21 June.

Geotime Mapping Software

5. Members asked for information regarding the evaluation of this software. Information on the evaluation process will be provided to the MPA by 21 June.

Emergency Equipment

6. The Commissioner agreed to provide Members with information from TP regarding officers having sufficient access to emergence equipment. Information will be provided to the MPA by 28 June 2011.

Fortnum and Mason arrests and charges

7. Members requested details of charges ‘dropped’ against people arrested for aggravated trespass at Fortnum and Mason. Information will be provided to the MPA by 21 June.

Report author: Zara Ryder, Strategic Relationships, MPS
Background papers None

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