Statement from the Mayor of London on the fourth anniversary of murders of Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “My thoughts are with the family, friends and loved ones of Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman today as we mark the fourth anniversary of their murders.

“The circumstances of Bibaa and Nicole’s deaths horrified us all. Every woman and girl in our country should be able to live their lives in safety, but sadly that is not the reality for too many. I am determined to do everything in my power as Mayor to tackle male violence against women and girls in our city, which has such a terrible and lasting impact on individuals, families and communities. 

“I remain focused on addressing the deep-rooted culture and standards issues within the Met, issues underlined by the appalling actions of two former Met Police officers who betrayed their duty to protect and serve in the aftermath of these tragic murders. The Met have come a long way in the recent past, with stronger vetting and the removal of those unfit to serve. But it’s clear there is more to do to raise standards, rebuild trust in policing and ensure a stronger relationship between the Met and Londoners.

“Throughout this, Mina Smallman and her family have been a beacon of hope and strength and I want to thank them for their commitment to bringing Londoners from all backgrounds together to demand change and improvement to the way women and girls are protected and London’s diverse communities are policed.”