It was this Labour Government that brought, for the first time ever, democracy and accountability to the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) by establishing the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA) to oversee policing in London.

One of the first decisions made by the MPA was to review the way that the MPS allocates its resources using the Resource Allocation Formula (RAF). Historically this process lacked transparency and accountability and was open to borough-level lobbying to the detriment of all other London boroughs. The consultation of the new RAF was a nine-month process. London MPs, Borough Commanders and MPA members all received notification at the start of the process in February 2001 and were asked to complete a questionnaire. Just four out of 72 MPs responded; while just under a third of all local authorities responded.

By contrast all Borough Commanders responded. Community police consultative groups, Greater London Authority members, council leaders and chief executives were consulted later. The MPA recognises that the consultation process could be improved. At the same time as adopting the new RAF, the MPA decided that, to ensure all London boroughs are treated equally, the RAF would be reviewed in 2004. Elected members at all levels of the political spectrum were aware of the process. Unfortunately, some have chosen to respond to media speculation or misinformation.

Toby Harris

Chairman,

Metropolitan Police Authority

December 31, 2001 14:50