Metropolitan Police Authority to investigate deaths in custody procedures

68/01
20 September 2001

The Metropolitan Police Authority today called for a scrutiny of how deaths in police custody are investigated in London.

Toby Harris, Chair of the Authority, said:

"We will want to look at a number of issues surrounding deaths in custody, including the suspension of officers, disciplinary procedures, and how the Metropolitan Police has responded to concerns raised by the families of people who have died.

"We will also need to clarify the role taken by the Authority, and the legal implications of suspending officers following a death, together with possible alternative disciplinary and internal procedures.

"This whole area is highly emotive and is something the Authority has been actively involved with for some time, including our controversial showing of the deaths in custody film Injustice earlier in the year. We went ahead with the screening to widen the debate despite threats of legal action if we did so.

"Our main concern now is to ensure that procedures carried out following a death are transparent, open and fair, and that investigations are rigorous, speedy and effective. The relatives of people who have died in custody need to know the circumstances surrounding that death. They must feel satisfied that all the facts have been brought out into the open and thoroughly examined.

"It is in no one's interest for doubt and confusion to remain in anyone's mind following the tragic death of someone in custody. This only breeds suspicion and resentment and casts a shadow over the reputation of the Met."

Peter Herbert, one of the Authority's two Deputy Chairs, said:

"Over the past 30 years there have been more than 1,000 deaths in police custody and not one successful prosecution. This obviously raises major concerns that the system is flawed and needs urgent review. I welcome the Authorities scrutiny of this important area."

The Authority's Consultation, Diversity and Outreach Committee (CDO) will further discuss the issue at its meeting in Southwark tonight and a full report will be made to the Authority in due course.

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