Dame Lynne Owens Confirmed as Permanent Deputy Commissioner of Met Police
The King has officially appointed Dame Lynne Owens as Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police. The move came after the Home Secretary’s recommendation and full backing from the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime.
Met’s Top Brass Gets a Shake-Up Amid Turnaround Plan
Dame Lynne, boasting over 32 years in policing and national security, steps up from her interim role, which she has held since September 2022. Her permanent appointment marks a key change in the Met’s leadership as it pushes through a major reform agenda.
“The breadth of skills and experience that Dame Lynne Owens brings to the role of Deputy Commissioner is unrivalled,” said Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley. “She’s a proven leader, having served as Chief Constable of Surrey Police and Director General of the National Crime Agency, where she fought serious organised crime.”
Leaders Rally Behind Dame Lynne to Restore Public Trust
Home Secretary Suella Braverman praised the appointment:
“Dame Lynne Owens brings decades of experience in law enforcement to the role. I’m confident she’s the right person to support Sir Mark through this challenging period. It’s vital public trust in policing is restored, with a focus on basics like burglary prevention, knife crime reduction, and making streets safer for women and girls.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan added:
“Dame Lynne’s extensive policing experience and commitment will help ensure Londoners see falling violent crime and urgent improvements in culture and standards across the Met. I look forward to working with her and Commissioner Rowley to rebuild trust and make London safer for everyone.”
Dame Lynne Vows to Deliver Real Change
Dame Lynne Owens expressed enthusiasm to get stuck in, saying:
“I’m delighted to support Sir Mark, the leadership team, and all the Met’s officers, staff, and volunteers in protecting London’s communities. Our mission is clear and evolving. Now is the time to focus on action – our deeds, not words, will be the measure of our success.”
