Rick Prior, Chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation, has been suspended following a controversial interview he gave to GB News, sparking public outrage and raising questions about the internal workings of the Police Federation. The decision has left many shocked, especially given Prior’s outspoken defence of police officers in recent months.
The suspension was announced on social media, with a source revealing on X (formerly Twitter): “Folks, to update you on this, it’s an attack on @MPFed Chair Rick Prior by the @CEO_PFEW, who has suspended Rick over an interview he gave on @GBNEWS.” The move has ignited concerns about transparency within the Police Federation’s leadership and sparked a broader debate on the motives behind the suspension.
Rick Prior’s Advocacy for Officers
Rick Prior has gained widespread respect within the Metropolitan Police Federation for his steadfast support of officers, particularly during the controversial case involving two Territorial Support Group (TSG) officers who were wrongfully dismissed following a stop and search of athlete Bianca Williams. The officers were later vindicated by the Police Appeals Tribunal, which ruled the accusations of dishonesty as “irrational” and “inconsistent.”
Prior’s passionate advocacy for frontline officers has earned him admiration, with many seeing him as a champion of police rights. His suspension has left supporters questioning the motives behind the decision, with one commenting: “Unbelievable. I like his stance; he is a breath of fresh air to the usual political rubbish spouted.” Another added, “Absolutely disgusting being fired for airing the truth.”
Former Sergeant’s Support and Criticism of Leadership
Former Police Sergeant Harry Tangye, who served with distinction on the Armed Response Vehicle Section (ARVS), voiced his concerns on X, stating: “I’m hearing the chair of the @MPFed, @mpfchairman Rick Prior, a man known for his immense support and moral courage to police officers, has been suspended from the @PFEW_HQ for what I see, as many others do, as common sense by courageously highlighting a problem with many Met leadership which is sapping the moral of its officers.
Tangye’s comments reflect growing frustration within police ranks, with many seeing Prior’s suspension as a blow to officer morale.
Spotlight on Police Federation CEO Mukund Krishna
Attention has now turned to Mukund Krishna, CEO of the Police Federation of England & Wales (PFEW), who is believed to have made the decision to suspend Prior. Krishna, who joined PFEW in 2021 and was recently appointed CEO, has faced criticism for his lack of policing experience. His background as a global management consultant has raised concerns about his suitability to lead an organisation representing police officers.
Adding to the controversy is the fact that Krishna’s salary is funded by police officers who are members of the Police Federation, yet the organisation has not disclosed the amount he is paid, further fuelling unease within the ranks.
Silence from Official Organisations
Both the Metropolitan Police Federation and the Police Federation of England & Wales have remained silent on the matter, with no official statements released regarding Prior’s suspension or the contents of the interview that led to the decision. The lack of communication has left many officers and supporters in limbo, eagerly awaiting further information.
Rick Prior’s suspension has highlighted ongoing tensions within the Police Federation, particularly concerning its leadership and representation of frontline officers. As the situation unfolds, officers and supporters are left questioning the future direction of the organisation and its commitment to the people it serves.
