Sir Mark Rowley Named New Met Police Commissioner in Major Shake-Up
Sir Mark Rowley has officially been appointed as the new Metropolitan Police Commissioner by Her Majesty the Queen, following a fierce recruitment process led by the Home Secretary and endorsed by the Mayor of London.
Massive Investment Meets Tough Policing Challenges
With the government pouring record funds into policing—including the recruitment of 20,000 new officers across England and Wales—Sir Mark faces a tall order. His main focus: get the basics right, restore shattered public trust, execute the Beating Crime Plan, and make London’s streets safer.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said:
Sir Mark Rowley is a distinguished and experienced officer, having served in the West Midlands and Surrey, and steered the capital through the horrors of the 2017 terror attacks as head of counter-terrorism. Now, he takes on a demanding role amid a crisis of public confidence caused by serious failings.”
“Rebuilding trust and cutting crime are his top priorities. We’re backing him with a £3.24 billion policing budget and support for nearly 2,600 extra officers. I look forward to working closely with Sir Mark to drive the changes Londoners need.”
Sir Mark Vows to Clean House and Rebuild Trust
Sir Mark responded, promising to lead a “renewal of consent-based policing” after years of declining trust.
“I’m honoured to become the next Met Commissioner. We will fight crime hand in hand with communities, not by imposing tactics. Using technology, data, and culture change, we’ll restore integrity and root out corruption. Most officers are dedicated, and it’s my job to help them succeed.”
Expect more trust, less crime, and higher standards across London. Policing by consent is a uniquely British invention, and we’ll renew it for today’s city.”
Mayor Sadiq Khan Backs Sir Mark’s Tough Reform Agenda
London Mayor Sadiq Khan hailed Sir Mark as the best choice to steer the Met through its worst crisis in years.
“After a string of scandals exposed deep cultural issues and destroyed trust, Sir Mark is ready to drive urgent reforms and change culture. His leadership during the 2017 terror attacks and commitment to community engagement make him the right man for the job.”
“With four years outside policing, he brings fresh ideas. We share a vision of a police force all Londoners can be proud of. I will hold him and the Met accountable every step of the way.”
Met’s Acting Commissioner Offers Full Support
Sir Stephen House, acting Met Commissioner, added: “Congratulations to Sir Mark. His extensive experience across London and beyond will benefit the city and its people.”
About Sir Mark Rowley – Policing Heavyweight with a National Security Legacy
- Former Chief Constable of Surrey Police (2008–2011)
- Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Crime and Operations (2011–2014)
- National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Counter-Terrorism (2014–2018)
- Knighthood awarded in 2018 for outstanding national security leadership
Over 30 years, Sir Mark transformed UK counter-terrorism, slashed London shootings and murders to record lows, revamped public order and fraud policing, and led Ops to battle cybercrime waves.
Since 2018, he has worked in tech and security projects tackling extremism, online safety, racism, and illicit finance.
Sir Mark’s first day in charge of the Met will be announced soon.
