The Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, has welcomed the Government’s latest announcement introducing reforms aimed at strengthening the police accountability system. In a statement issued today, Sir Mark expressed his support for the changes, describing them as an essential step towards creating a fairer and more efficient system for police officers.
“These measures represent positive progress toward a system that is both fairer and faster, supporting the vast majority of officers who serve with integrity every day,” Sir Mark said. He highlighted the recent acquittal of Sergeant Martyn Blake, a firearms officer, as an example of why reforms are necessary. Sergeant Blake was cleared of any wrongdoing after acting in accordance with his training during a high-risk incident.
Sir Mark emphasized that accountability is crucial, but he criticized the current system as “protracted and unbalanced,” which he believes undermines public and officer confidence. “Over many years, this has created a culture where our officers are increasingly more worried about a skewed, imbalanced system than they are the dangerous criminals they face on the streets. If this continues, it risks making the public less safe,” he stated.
The Commissioner expressed his commitment to working closely with the Government to implement these reforms swiftly, viewing them as a vital development to restore balance and enhance public safety.
The Metropolitan Police will now collaborate with authorities to deliver the changes outlined in the Government’s announcement, aiming to improve the operational environment for officers while ensuring public confidence in the justice system remains intact.
