Final Report of the Morris Inquiry: The Case for Change

THE CASE FOR CHANGE
6.37 Having considered the evidence that we have received, we do not believe
that there is a compelling case for recommending changes to the legislation
governing the role of police authorities in relation to complaints. We are persuaded
that the current statutory provisions provide a framework for effective scrutiny.
6.38 We are, of course, mindful of the fact that the MPA is a relatively new police
authority charged with oversight of a police service that operated without a police
authority for over 170 years. It is, therefore, likely that it might take some time to
find the right level of equilibrium in the relationship and also for the MPS to
appreciate the benefits of increased scrutiny.
6.39 This latter point is important, since effective oversight depends, to a certain
extent, on a constructive attitude on the part of those whose work is overseen. It is
possible that some of the MPA’s frustration with the current system is a reflection of
the attitude of the MPS to the Authority’s interest in its work.
6.40 We have already commented on the need for a police authority to apply
appropriate rigour to its oversight role. We consider that the MPA could be more
assertive in exercising its powers. There are examples of police authorities who are
much more robust in holding professional standards departments to account.
We recommend that the Metropolitan Police Authority enters into greater
dialogue with other police authorities to establish best practice in
discharging the oversight role.
This could also include visits and the exchange of information.
We also recommend that the Commissioner takes steps to ensure that the
Directorate of Professional Standards appreciates the importance of scrutiny
to public confidence.
6.41 In the next chapter we outline a model of case management which we
believe will ensure greater scrutiny of complaints and discipline matters. If this is
adopted, we are confident that it will assist the MPA in discharging its oversight
role effectively.
6.42 Oversight is not political interference but part of proper accountability. This
needs to be accepted by DPS, and the interest of MPA Members in the directorate’s
work welcomed and positively encouraged. We have received evidence of police
services who have issued an open invitation to members of their police authority’s
professional standards committee to inspect any professional standards file.
6.43 We have seen a draft protocol which, when finalised, will apply to, inter alia,
complaints, conduct cases and Employment Tribunal claims. This should assist in
clarifying the arrangements for the provision of information on cases which are
significant in terms of their financial or other consequences.
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