Minutes

Minutes of the Strategic and Operational Policing Committee of the Metropolitan Police Authority held on 11 November 2010 at 10 Dean Farrar Street, London SW1H 0NY.

Present

Members

• Reshard Auladin (Chairman)
• Toby Harris (Vice Chair)
• Chris Boothman
• Jennette Arnold
• Tony Arbour
• Jenny Jones
• Joanne McCartney
• Caroline Pidgeon
• Cindy Butts
• Graham Speed
• Amanda Sater
• Valerie Brasse

MPA officers

• Bob Atkins (Treasurer)
• Catherine Crawford (Chief Executive)
• Siobhan Coldwell (Head of Policing Policy Scrutiny and Oversight)
• Jane Owen (Head of Policing Planning and Performance Improvement)

MPS officers

• Chris Allison (Assistant Commissioner, CO)
• Anne McMeel (Director of Resources)
• Lynne Owens (Deputy Assistant Commissioner, TP)
• Nick Rogers (Director of Financial Services)
• Chris Strange (Lead Accountant, Directorate of Resources)
• Mark Simmons (Directorate of Professional Standards)
• Richard Heselden (Directorate of Professional Standards)

50. Apologies for absence

(Agenda item 1)

50.1 Apologies were received for Tony Arbour.

51. Declarations of interest

(Agenda item 2)

51.1 No interests were declared.

52. Minutes of the Strategic and Operational Policing Committee 14 October 2010 (part 1 )

(Agenda item 3)

52.1 Members agreed the minutes for the above meeting.

Resolved - That the minutes of the Strategic and Operational Policing Committee held on 14 October 2010 were agreed and signed as a correct record.

53. Urgent actions and urgent operational issues - oral report

(Agenda item 4)

53.1 Members received an update from Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison regarding the student protests at Millbank on 10 November 2010. He noted that the MPS had launched an internal review into the policing of these demonstrations and that they were expecting to publish the results within a week. Members asked that the findings be shared to and discussed with the Chair of the MPA as soon as they become available.

53.2 AC Allison commended the officers who acted with commitment and dedication despite adversity and violent protest. By way of background, he noted that the MPS had been working closely with the NUS since July 2010 – when they anticipated that 5000 students would attend. The NUS employed an event management team, with whom the MPS liaised – they agreed the route (and Westminster Palace was able to be kept open). On the Friday preceding the demonstration the NUS informed police that they expected 10000 to attend; by the day before the march this projection had been raised to 15000. This number was measured against open source intelligence and police sought to match resources to this intelligence. The data suggested that students may undertake low level civil disobedience – including sit-downs and forming a circle and running at one another - but nothing further.

53.3 25000 demonstrators were present by the start of the march, and intelligence suggested that it would remain peaceful. The march ran between Horseguards Avenue and Millbank and was peaceful – there was no impact on Downing Street, although there was no vehicle access through Whitehall for two and a half hours. Following speeches, demonstrators were invited to leave. At this point, a group broke away from the rally point to Millbank Tower and encouraged others to break windows and throw items.

53.4 AC Allison reported that it took time for the reserves to arrive on the scene because the violence was not anticipated. Those already on the scene were dealing with issues outside of the building whilst the demonstrators breached it and gained access to various levels. Police implemented an evacuation of the building, contained the area, and made 50 arrests (47 by MPS, 3 by BTP). It is intended that those responsible for any criminal damage and other crimes relating to the disturbances will be brought to justice.

53.5 Commander Simon Pountain is now reviewing the intelligence and risk analysis processes. AC Allison commended the dedication of officers involved – many of who demonstrated their commitment to serving Londoners by working very late into the night in order to complete detailed notes of the event so that organisational learning can be identified.

53.6 Members asked if there had been any progress in identifying the individual responsible for throwing a fire extinguisher at police from the roof and whether this incident had been caught on CCTV. The MPS responded that this was being carefully monitored and photographic evidence was currently being reviewed. The fire extinguisher nearly hit two TSG officers, and the police are determined that the individual responsible should be brought to justice.

53.7 Members expressed surprise that the police had been so caught out in terms of their intelligence - and asked whether social networking sites had been monitored in the run-up to the event. They noted that Westminster Palace had been effectively policed during the march and asked whether Millbank was not because risk assessments had been based upon previous events and was therefore considered low risk. It was suggested that the political climate had changed, and the broader political context should be considered in risk assessments as a matter of routine – political parties are now more likely to be targeted. Further to this point, Members enquired as to whether the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor for Policing were consulted with prior to such events. Members also asked why the headquarters of the Liberal Democrats was cordoned by the police, whether changes in tactics following G20 had led to overly soft policing, and whether a contingency force should have been prepared.

53.8 AC Allison assured Members that open sources were monitored. He confirmed that a review into how the MPS collected intelligence and conveyed it to Commanders on the ground was underway. He underscored the importance of allocating police officers on the basis of intelligence – as it would be a mistake to draw too many officers from other business. He told the Committee that a reserve force (including the Commissioner’s Reserve) was readily available. With regard to event briefings, he replied that he briefs MPS Management Board each week, and the Mayor and Deputy Mayor are briefed on an ad-hoc basis (but not in this instance). He confirmed that all of the HMIC’s recommendations in relation to G20 bar one had been implemented, but that events of 10 November occurred because Police recorded no intelligence of any disorder and resources were allocated on that basis. This was not an absence of effective tactics. He also responded that Liberal Democrat headquarters (and a number of business premises that were indeed targeted) was secured after the disturbance at Millbank began.

54.9 AC Allison was unable to confirm the number of protestors that were injured during the demonstrations, although he did note that 41 officers were injured. In terms of the mores serious injuries, some had facial stitches and one had ripped tendons. He told Members that London Ambulance Service normally give injury figures to investigating officers and had not yet confirmed civilian numbers.

54.10 Members reaffirmed their concern that the majority of intelligence gathering seems to have been from the NUS, whilst recognising that over the past ten years intelligence gathering within the police had become a lot more creative and that it was positive that no reports of police brutality had emerged following the protest. They also cautioned against rushing the review – particularly in light of the 2012 Games.

54.10 Members agreed that a full discussion at the Authority should be postponed until findings of the investigation had been released. Members expressed an intention to seek clarification regarding how cordons were used, which groups caused the trouble (i.e. students or outside pressure groups). AC Allison agreed that most of the issues raised by Members would be picked up during the investigation and findings should be available by Friday 19 November. An update will be provided at the next meeting of the Full Authority.

Resolved – That the report be noted.

1. COMMISSIONER TO PROVIDE AN ORAL UPDATE ON THE INVESTIGATION DURING FULL AUTHORITY ON 25 NOVEMBER. Amanda Webster-Robbins, MPS

54. Report from the Sub-committees

(Agenda item 5)

54.1 Members noted the report without further comment.

Resolved – That the report be noted.

55. Thematic performance report

(Agenda item 6)

55.1 The MPS introduced a report that detailed performance within Central Operations (CO) and provided additional narrative regarding the Territorial Support Group (TSG). The central function of CO is to provide a pan-London uniformed response to incidents across other business groups. CO accounts for 7.1% of total MPS staff.

55.2 The TSG is a strategic reserve for the MPS, capable of immediate response to emerging incidents. They spend 15% of their resource in policing public order events, and the majority of their time in crime patrols (often in the most challenging areas of London). The TSG accounts for 754 officers and a budget of £38 million – 2.35% of the MPS total. The Commissioner’s reserve is available between 8 am and 4 am every day. The Borough Reserve is targeted at priority boroughs on priority crime types.

55.3 In 2007, Taser was introduced to TSG. They employ specially trained officers in tight units, and its use is always supervised. Since December 2007 Taser has been deployed in 530 incidents, and fired in 110. As such, it has proved to have particular value as a deterrent - its use has prevented both suspects and officers being injured.

55.4 TSG arrests are up year by year. They have a stop and search arrest or seizure rate of 25%. They have also seen a 43% reduction in complaints against the unit – due in part to those being placed on the complaints intervention scheme being redeployed to base duties. Following G20 CO’s Senior Management Team completed a comprehensive review of TSG. A presentation aimed at increasing public confidence in the unit and giving a greater understanding of the challenges of policing public order events was received by the IAG forum and will be rolled out across the MPS.

55.5 Members noted that measure 7 – ‘number of blameworthy police collisions in 2010/11’ – was over the target of a monthly average of fewer than 152.25 collisions. Members had received a presentation from Rod Jarman, who stressed the requirement to ensure better driver training and selection. The MPS affirmed that this work was on-going.

55.6 Paragraph 60 suggests that Borough Commanders have a limited understanding of the functions of TSG, Members asked how TSG communicates to a broader audience. The MPS responded that a presentation ‘The Situation Has Changed’ is offered to stakeholders and that this can be offered to Members for those who did not previously see it. The TSG are also setting up a community reference group (including individuals from hard-to-reach communities and from the outskirts of London) who will engage with and advise SMT. They noted that TSG have many competencies and not all are known to everyone.

55.7 Members expressed concern that in some instances complaints regarding the TSG had taken over two years to investigate - and disquiet in relation to such events typifies and confirms the concerns that some communities have around TSG. Whilst conceding that TSG needed to do more around diversity, the MPS stated that they are trying to attract a more diverse workforce by using shield training and specialist days. Whilst noting that TSG officers volunteer for these posts, they affirmed that the TSG must be aware of what they look like during operations in order that this is not a barrier to those considering applying.

55.8 Members asked whether any suspects had required hospital treatment after being subject to Taser. They heard that a protocol exists around medical checks administered following Taser discharge, and that no cases had required further medical attention. Taser elicits an involuntary spasm, followed by full recovery within a few minutes. The fact that it has only been fired on 110 occasions confirms that the ‘red dot’ works – Taser provides an effective deterrent.

55.9 They also expressed concern that it appeared the MPS were using volume of arrests as one of the performance indicators – as it is the quality of arrests which is important. The MPS assured Members that this is not a performance indicator; the ambition of the unit is to get criminals off the streets by making effective arrests.

55.10 The MPS informed Members that they were unable to extract Blunt 2 stop and searches from others. Members also expressed disapproval that community work undertaken by TSG seemed frivolous in some cases – e.g. a fishing trip and a community fete. They stressed that a reference group must not be just an exercise in bureaucracy noting that IAGs and consultation groups already exist, and requested a full EIA in relation to this project.

55.11 In relation to paragraph 28, Members asked why well over half of the TSG had served for more than three and a half years – as rotation is a step toward changing the composition and culture of a unit. They suggested that there has been no change in the ethnic or gender profile in TSG over the years. Given that TSG requires highly skilled officers, Members suggested that more work be done in relation to training and human resources. The MPS agreed that training is essential. Due to the high level of training necessary, three to four years of service would not achieve value for money. They confirmed that the unit see a high turnover in terms of senior staff, however. Cultural symmetry with the rest of the Service is also achieved by TSG officers working with Safer Neighbourhoods Teams for three days a month.

55.12 Members asked how TSG handle complaints. The DPS referenced the complaints intervention scheme (CIS) which sees action being taken against officers with three or more complaint or discipline ‘actions’ within a 12 month period. The unit now has a dedicated liaison officer within the DPS.

55.13 Members praised the work done by TSG – including their outreach work. However, they expressed concern that reduced costs in TSG may see reduced numbers of officers in teams and may disproportionately affect under-resourced boroughs (who often receive TSG intervention). The MPS responded that they hope that savings will be covered by reducing wastage – less paper, telephones, overtime, and police kit. In response to a question, the MPS stated that they hoped that the TSG would continue to do outreach and diversion work with young people but, if there were cuts, their capacity to do so might have to be reduced. There us a need for other agencies to take on more responsibility in this regard.

55.14 Members suggested that TSG may be the subject of a future MPA scrutiny. This had been raised with Deputy Commissioner Tim Godwin, who had responded that an internal review was on-going. Members are yet to receive any further information regarding this review. They stressed that they want to see the full findings of the review ‘warts and all’ in order that the MPA can be fully satisfied that no scrutiny project would be necessary.

Resolved - That the report be noted.

2. MEMBERS TO RECEIVE AN EIA REGARDING THE PROPOSED COMMUNITY REFERENCE GROUP. Amanda Webster-Robbins

3. MEMBERS TO RECEIVE FULL FINDINGS OF INTERNAL REVIEW INTO TSG. Amanda Webster-Robbins

56. Headline Performance report

(Agenda item 7)

56.1 Members received a report covering performance over the period up to 30 September 2010. Crimes of violence are down from last year – including assaults, firearms discharges and knifes used to injure. Burglary is at its lowest level since 1998-99. Transit robbery has declined significantly – and partnership work contributed to this success. Robbery remains a challenge despite Operations Autumn Nights and Blunt 2. However, the last three weeks (period covered by Autumn Nights) have seen a significant reduction on last year; Halloween week saw a 21% reduction.

56.2 Members asked for more information regarding initiatives to address robbery. The MPS replied that Operation Autumn Nights was deployed in seven hotspots, using overt and covert policing methods. Air support played a vital role in identifying hotspots and responding to intelligence gathered during Blunt 2 operations. Also, the fear of cameras in aircraft has proved to be an effective deterrent (particularly in and around schools). They confirmed that Commander Steve Rodhouse is currently reviewing the structure of Blunt 2 and a briefing note outlining the outcomes of the review will be circulated to Members.

56.3 Members expressed concern that although the number of violent crimes are reducing, the crimes themselves are becoming more brazen and violent – e.g. a 5 am ‘gangland’ shootout in the public domain in Islington on 9 November 2010. The MPS agreed that there continued to be a perception that crimes are more violent, although the current analysis does not suggest that injuries are getting worse.

56.4 Members asked whether the rise in robberies may be related to the economic climate. The MPs responded that it is likely, although it would be difficult to measure a direct correlation. It has been observed, however, that the type of property targeted has changed – the young have been targeting mobile phones.

Resolved - That the report be noted.

4. MEMBERS TO RECEIVE A BRIEFING NOTE REGARDING THE REVIEW OF BLUNT 2 Amanda Webster-Robbins

57. Amendment to the Professional Standards Cases Sub-committee term of reference

(Agenda item 8)

Resolved – That the recommendation be agreed.

58. Professional Standards Indicators

(Agenda item 9)

58.1 The MPS introduced a report that set out complaints data for April 1 – June 30 2010. An increase of 7.2% over the same period during 2009/10 was recorded. However, this is best explained by a broadening of the definitions used. Failure in duty accounts for 44.3% (an increase of 13.1%) of all complaints, oppressive behaviour accounts for 23.3% (a reduction of 9.3%), and incivility for 15.5% (an increase of 3.1%). The rate of increase in failure of duty complaints has slowed. The decreases in oppressive behaviour and reductions in the rate of increase for incivility are in part due to vastly reduced numbers of complaints regarding TSG.

59.2 Appendix 3 contained a breakdown of BOCU performance. The highest volume of complaints was recorded in Hackney, Enfield and Tower Hamlets. These boroughs are now engaged in the Professional Standards Support Programme delivered by the DPS Prevention and Reduction Team (PaRT).

59.3 The MPS noted that Members requested more data on diversity at the previous discussion on indicators. Unfortunately, as resolution is often achieved without face-to-face contact, the ethnic profile of 49% of complainants remains unknown.

59.4 Finally, the DPS referred to the redrafted Complaints Intervention Scheme (CIS) – which manages officers who have three complaint or conduct ‘events’ in any 12 month period. The scheme has seen lower numbers of officers than previously.

59.5 Members expressed concern that performance in Enfield remained below par, particularly as this had been the case for a number of years. They asked what level of intrusive supervision was offered to under-performing boroughs. The DPS responded that supervision is broken down to team or even officer level if necessary. They are reviewing the programme currently offered. With regard personnel, they noted that leadership can make a big difference although these trends can take a long time to turn around as a change in approach takes a while to filter through. Intervention is bespoke. They also noted that boroughs have historically recorded complaints differently and this corrupts the data to some degree (e.g. recording the complaint as relating to a number of officers as opposed to just one).

59.6 The DPS concluded by assuring members that they had recently set up a system of ‘quality call-backs’, whereby a customer service team will call complainants to gather an assessment of their satisfaction with the way their complaint had been handled. The next report will incorporate this data.

Resolved – That the report be noted.

59. Reports on Operations Jigsaw and Compass and Operational Policing Measures

(Agenda item 10, item 11 and item 12)

59.1 Members agreed to defer the consideration of these reports until the SOPC meeting of 9 December.

60. IPCC Recommendations implementation (PART 1)

(Agenda item 13)

60.1 The MPS introduced a short report into the processes followed by the DPS Organizational Learning Team in implementing change arising from IPCC investigations. The details of each recommendation are individually recorded on the secure Tribune computer system – with every complaint given a reference number. This enables staff to attribute key-words to each recommendation in order that they can be easily cross-referenced, data can be organised both thematically and geographically so that trends may be identified. Recommendations can be MPS wide, local or even individual. A senior decision-maker is identified to carry forward each recommendation, and the DPS keep a log of contact with these officers and maintain timescales for delivery.

Resolved – That the report be noted.

61. Exclusion of press and public

(Agenda item 14)

61.1 Members agreed to exclude press and public.

Summary of exempt items

62. IPCC Recommendations implementation (Part 2)

(Agenda item 15)

62.1 Members discussed confidential elements of the report.

63. Minutes of the Strategic and Operational Policing Committee 14 October 2010 (part 2 )

(Agenda item 16)

63.1 Members agreed the minutes for the above meeting.

Resolved - That the minutes of the Strategic and Operational Policing Committee held on 14 October 2010 (part 2) were agreed and signed as a correct record.

Meeting closed - 4.30 pm

Summary of action items: status if known:

1. COMMISSIONER TO PROVIDE AN ORAL UPDATE ON THE INVESTIGATION DURING FULL AUTHORITY ON 25 NOVEMBER. Complete
2. MEMBERS TO RECEIVE AN EIA REGARDING THE PROPOSED COMMUNITY REFERENCE GROUP. Ongoing
3. MEMBERS TO RECEIVE FULL FINDINGS OF INTERNAL REVIEW INTO TSG. Ongoing
4. MEMBERS TO RECEIVE A BRIEFING NOTE REGARDING THE REVIEW OF BLUNT 2. Ongoing

Send an e-mail linking to this page

Feedback