PCD 1451 Request for authorisation to settle a claim against the Metropolitan Police Service

PCD 1451 Request for authorisation to settle a claim against the Metropolitan Police Service

The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime (DMPC) is asked to consider a request to settle claims. 

The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime has the discretion to authorise financial settlement of claims where it would be conducive to the maintenance of an efficient and effective police force.

The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime is recommended to: authorise settlement of claims for the reasons set out below and in part two. 

PART I - NON-CONFIDENTIAL FACTS AND ADVICE TO THE DMPC 

1. Introduction and background 

1. In December 2017 Havering Council Safer Neighbourhood Board requested statistical data from Havering Borough police in order to compare officer numbers in 2010 and 2017.  The police response contained not only the statistical information but also confidential personal details of approx. 1,360 officers and PCSOs.  The data breach was discovered in May 2018.  Borough police ensured that all recipients of the data deleted it from their computers.  There has been no onward disclosure.   

2. Issues for consideration 

1. For the DMPC to consider whether to authorise settlement of claims identified in part 2, and whether the settlement will secure an efficient and effective Police Service 

3. Financial Comments 

1. DMPC has authority to approve the cost of any settlement, above £50,000.00, or those claims that are otherwise high profile or sensitive, according to the criteria set out at section 4.10 of the Scheme of Consent and Delegation 2016. 

4. Legal Comments 

1. The DMPC has delegated authority under section 4.10 of the Scheme of Consent and Delegation 2016, to consider the current application. 

2. MOPAC has the power to pay any sum required in connection with the settlement for any claim made against the Commissioner under Section 88 of the Police Act 1996. 

5. GDPR and Data Privacy  

1. The processing of personal data has been minimised as part of this decision and is held within Part 2 of the report. 

6. Equality Comments 

1. To continue policing with the consent of the population it serves, the police will always seek to treat everyone fairly and openly. Race or equality issues do not appear to have an impact in this matter.   

7. Background/supporting papers 

1. None