Final Report of the Morris Inquiry: The Case for Change

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
communication, both by enhancing the systems and by giving more thought to
the message.
1.45 From what we have heard we are satisfied that the MPS needs to rethink the
way it consults its workforce. This is a subject on which we received much evidence
of poor practice. We are therefore recommending that the organisation commits
itself to a Code of Practice, which sets out how it will consult and embodies best
practice in this vital area of managerial responsibility.
Building Capacity
1.46 An effective organisation depends on the leadership and management of its
workforce. However, we found a conspicuous lack of ‘people focus’ in many areas
we examined. This ranged from the treatment of individuals under investigation to
the approach to managing difference; from promotion processes to training
opportunities; from appraisal to flexible working.
1.47 The MPS acknowledges that the manner in which it treats officers and staff
will be the determining factor in its future success and in its ability to meet key
policing objectives. A well-managed and well-motivated workforce will deliver
better policing.
1.48 However, the evidence we have received indicates that there is some way
to go before the workforce is as well-managed and motivated as it deserves to be.
We have made a series of recommendations which we hope will help bridge that
gap and introduce a stronger people focus across the organisation.
1.49 Some of our recommendations relate to cultural issues and others to the
proper implementation of current policies. Some are designed to raise the skills
available to the organisation and ensure that they are used to the full.
Lessons for the Future
1.50 Finally, we considered a number of ‘high profile’ cases. We were asked to
identify lessons to be learnt from the process and outcomes of these cases. Following
a process of systematic appraisal, we decided to focus on four cases in particular.
1.51 We found much in these cases which struck a chord with the evidence
we received from other individuals and we consider that a number of the
recommendations we have made in relation to professional standards will
go some way towards meeting the criticisms of the way these four cases were
handled.
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