Second statement by Len Duvall Chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority: Commissioner’s comments at Full Authority meeting about media crime reporting.

06/06
27 January 2006

In the context of recent press reports I want to make it clear that Richard Barnes is a member of the MPA but holds no formal responsibility within the MPA, and does not speak on behalf of the Authority.

Members present at the meeting of the Authority fully understood the context of the question around resources allocated to murder enquiries and whether the media have influence in this arena, which was raised by Cindy Butts, Deputy Chair of the MPA. The question was properly asked and required an answer.

No Authority members challenged the Commissioner’s response during the meeting.

I am satisfied and I believe the majority of members are satisfied with the way the Commissioner has clarified his position, particularly in respect of his comments about the tragic Soham murders.

The Commissioner recognises the power of the press to support police in their investigations but has raised questions around the selective coverage of cases.

Public debate on legitimate issues around policing is part of the Authority’s responsibilities for holding the MPS to account.

Notes to editors

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