Press Release

Mayor congratulates Sir Paul Stephenson on appointment as Metropolitan Police Commissioner
28-1-2009   043

The Mayor of London and Chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA), Boris Johnson, today congratulated Sir Paul Stephenson on his appointment as the next Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police.

The Mayor has long thought Sir Paul Stephenson seemed the most suitable man for the job and was delighted the Home Secretary agreed.

Boris Johnson made a clear manifesto commitment to increase police accountability and put greater focus on cutting knife crime, violence and protecting the capital from the threats from terrorism.

Boris Johnson said:

“I'm thrilled the Home Secretary and I agree that Sir Paul Stephenson is best man to bring the fresh leadership needed at the Met.  I believe he was the clear choice in a strong field of candidates for the position of Commissioner.

'I have been impressed with way Sir Paul has conducted himself while he has been Acting Commissioner. I know he has the support of the troops and has shown his commitment to Londoners in a big way in his work to make London safer.

‘The Metropolitan Police must overcome huge challenges to make our capital safer and improve the quality of life for Londoners. The threats of knife crime, violence and terrorism are all too real and demand a sustained effort from the Metropolitan Police.

‘I am convinced that Sir Paul will provide the necessary leadership to tackle these threats, rebuild Londoners' confidence and pride in the Metropolitan Police and deliver commonsense policing.”

Kit Malthouse, Deputy Mayor for Policing said,

“In Sir Paul Stephenson we have a new Commissioner with an impressive record of tackling crime, successfully leading a large police force and work to improve the relationship between the police and the public.

‘I have no doubt that with Sir Paul Stephenson at the helm of the country’s biggest police force we will take back the streets, make the capital safer for our kids and improve the everyday quality of life across London.

'I am pleased that we have a Commissioner who the Mayor, Home Secretary, Prime Minister and the Metropolitan Police Authority can stand four-square behind.”

Notes to Editors

1. Selection process for New Metropolitan Police Commissioner. 
   More:  http://www.mpa.gov.uk/about/careers/commissioner.htm
2. The appointment of Sir Paul Stephenson as the new Metropolitan Police Commissioner was made by Her Majesty The Queen following a recommendation by the Home Secretary under the Police Act 1996.  Before making this recommendation the Home Secretary will have regard to any recommendations made to her by the MPA and any representations from the Mayor of London.

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