Statement by Len Duvall Chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority

17/06
17 March 2006

“Policing London is of paramount importance and the MPA is confident that the MPS, from the Commissioner down, is dedicated to tackling crime and will not be distracted by current media speculation. The MPS is getting on with the job and will not be diverted - it is business as usual.

“Regarding media speculation over the conduct of one senior MPS officer, the matter was rightly reported to the MPA. Decisions about the matter have been taken by MPA independently of the MPS.

“The alleged breach of confidence has no connection whatever with the officer’s evidence to the Independent Police Complaints Commission. Following proper consultation with the IPCC the Authority is making preliminary inquiries into the allegation in order to decide whether there is any matter that warrants investigation.

“It is in the interests of everyone involved to clarify matters of conduct as soon as possible in order to move on.

“In the past 12 months the Commissioner and the MPS have faced unprecedented challenges while at the same time reforming and restructuring London’s police to provide the service that people want. Ian Blair’s detractors cannot diminish the significant achievements under his leadership.

“Issues will not be clarified until the legal processes surrounding the Stockwell incident are concluded. In the meantime, continued media speculation will not deflect our officers from their dedication to serving and protecting the people of London.”

Notes to editors

Further media information

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