Victoria Climbié inquiry report welcomed by MPA

09/03
28 January 2003

The Metropolitan Police Authority today welcomed the publication and recommendations of Lord Laming’s inquiry report into the circumstances surrounding the murder of Victoria Climbié.

Richard Sumray, the MPA’s lead Member on child protection issues, said:

“Victoria’s death was a terrible tragedy and pointless waste of a young girl’s life. Our first thoughts today are with her family to whom we express our deepest sympathy.

“As expected, Lord Laming’s report is forthright and thorough in its investigation, highlighting the mistakes and misjudgements that led ultimately to Victoria’s death.

“The Metropolitan Police Service has a duty to investigate with the utmost care, expediency and thoroughness all allegations of crime or abuse against a child. They accept, as is indicated in the report, that in the case of Victoria Climbié, they clearly failed. We all deeply regret this.

“We must now look to what is being done to address Lord Laming’s concerns and how the MPS will implement all of his recommendations.

“Since Victoria’s death much of this work had already begun and is well advanced. The MPA has worked closely with the MPS to effect wide-ranging changes and provide sufficient resources for child protection investigation. The Authority has provided specific funding for additional training and on-going money for the implementation of the recommendations.

“We will also ensure that priority is given to all of the relevant issues raised in the report. The Authority has already recognised the importance of giving child protection investigation high priority in the annual policing plan, and we will address in particular how the police intend to effect change and ensure that they deliver a service of the highest professional standard. We will be monitoring on a regular basis the implementation of these changes.”

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