A review has found that two serial rapists were among 131 officers (Picture: Getty Images)
My priority since being elected in 2005,is to ensure that we have safer streets in London. So,I was shocked and appalled that once again,the Metropolitan Police is in the news for all the wrong reasons.
A review has found that two serial rapists were among 131 officers and staff who committed crimes or misconduct after not being properly vetted.
It is the latest in a long line of serious failings by the capital’s police,and even more misconduct from serving officers.
One of the most shocking cases is that of former Met officer David Carrick,who was given 37 life sentences for his crimes,including 71 offences of sexual violence committed over 17 years.
Carrick was reportedly not properly vetted in 2017,a process that failed to reveal an allegation of domestic abuse against him.
People like this should never be placed in positions of power and authority. Preventing them from joining the police service is precisely what vetting is supposed to achieve.
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Full inclusion is essential for transparency,accountability,and restoring much-needed confidence in the police.
After I raised this issue,the Met stated that improvements had been made and pledged further progress. I will continue to hold them to account and until every officer is on the database.
We can never again allow a blind eye to be turned to institutional racism,sexism,homophobia or corruption.
There are many ethical police officers in London and across the country (Picture: Getty Images)
I believe we must still go further to uphold the highest possible standards.
In addition to the database,I have argued that every officer,regardless of when they joined,should undergo comprehensive mandatory re-vetting,including psychological testing.
I believe that their crimes can only have been carried out when they have lost compassion for the public they serve.
Re-vetting would help identify and remove those people from our streets. It would also allow the Met Police to offer counselling and support to those officers who need help to understand acceptable behaviours.
There are many ethical police officers in London and across the country. I work with officers in Brent who do outstanding work every day. Removing those who tarnish the reputation of the Met is not only necessary for public assurance,but it benefits the principled officers themselves too.
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While not undoing the damage caused,it is also right to acknowledge that these failings stem from past practices.
It is therefore reassuring that the Met has since toughened entry vetting and removed over 1,500 officers and staff deemed unfit to serve. The Commissioner has rightly committed to cleaning up the force.
But we still have far to go in ensuring safety and reliance on the Met police.
Ultimately,I would like to see a new social contract between the police and the public.
The prioritisation of safeguarding of all citizens,regardless of race,gender,disability,religion,sex or sexual orientation is of the utmost importance,for both police and the public.
We must now redouble our efforts to ensure that those with authority truly embody the values of the public they serve.
The public deserves to feel safe with the police and I am strongly committed to ensuring that.
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