Statement by Len Duvall, Chair of Metropolitan Police Authority: Commissioner’s comments at Full Authority about media crime reporting

05/06
27 January 2006

The question raised by Cindy Butts, Deputy Chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority, referred to the proportionate use of resources by the Met to investigate all murders.

In certain cases blanket coverage by the media may lead to the public perception that police are targeting resources to high profile stories. The Met have confirmed to the Authority that this is categorically untrue and we want to reassure London’s communities that all investigations are resourced proportionally.

Thomas Rhys Pryce’s murder was tragic and horrific, but so were the other heinous murders committed at that time.

During that period the Met were also investigating six other murders including: Mr. Balbir Matharu who was run over when he confronted people breaking into his car, two domestic murders and two males who were stabbed.

The question remains as to why just one of these horrific crimes received mass media coverage.

We are pleased to confirm that the Commissioner has apologised unreservedly for his comments about the Soham murders, but we note that none of the members who have since raised concerns about this voiced their objections at the Authority meeting.

The ensuing media furore has highlighted the necessity for a reasoned mature debate about policing and the press. This is one which will be taken forward by the Authority at the earliest possible opportunity.

Notes to editors

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