The Metropolitan Police chief Sir Mark Rowley is being accused of a “betrayal of trust” as he is facing legal action for offering senior ranks voluntary exit pay-offs.
Sir Mark said that chief superintendents and chief inspectors who are “unwilling or unable” to change have “no place” in the Met.
However, the Metropolitan Police Federation has threatened to take the matter to court if Sir Mark does not stop offering the pay-offs.
Matt Cane, general secretary of the union, warned, “If such powers were misused in the manner implied, they would represent a fundamental breach of natural justice and a betrayal of the trust that officers place in the organisation they serve.
“Morale within the Metropolitan Police Service is already fragile if not non-existent.
“Officers at all levels have endured sustained external criticism, internal upheaval, and immense operational pressure.
“Your letter risks destroying what remains of confidence and goodwill among those you rely upon to deliver your vision.
“Instead of uniting the organisation, this approach divides it. Instead of motivating, it threatens. Instead of leading, it dictates.”
He adds: “We recognise the need for strong leadership, but this cannot and will not be achieved through fear, coercion, or arbitrary judgment.
“This letter should serve as formal notice that the Federation will challenge any implementation of the measures outlined that contravene Police Regulations or the Equality Act.
“Should it become necessary, we will take all appropriate legal steps to protect our members’ interests.”
A force spokeswoman told the Standard, “We are working tirelessly to raise standards and improve the culture across our organisation.
“This includes holding our leaders to the highest standards and the Commissioner has been clear the minority who resist change have no place in the Met. This is part of our wider work to help rebuild the trust Londoners have in us.
“We have received the letter and will respond in due course.”
Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes wrote in a letter, “We will also be more direct in identifying and tackling those of you who are unwilling or unable to meet our performance standards or role model our values.
“Our mission is too important to excuse those who continue to coast, or worst still underperform.”
Leave a Comment