Final Report of the Morris Inquiry: The Case for Change

THE CASE FOR CHANGE
recommendations of the Review of Operation Lancet and the normal
investigative process for criminal cases. Arrangements should be made to
put the necessary systems in place, as a matter of urgency, which should
prevent investigations such as this becoming a ‘runaway train’. We also
think that our recommended model of case management, if adopted, will
help to ensure that the right checks and balances are in place to ensure that
the investigation is subject to the appropriate strategic direction and scrutiny.
● We recommend that the MPS avoids entering into agreements in
relation to professional standards and conduct matters that are ultra
vires.
● We repeat our earlier recommendation that all DPS investigators should
keep a full policy file documenting the reasons for key decisions made.
● In respect of the use of lay advisors in such investigations, we repeat our
earlier recommendations in chapter 6 on the appointment of IAG members
and the resourcing of the IAG. In particular, we emphasise our earlier
recommendation on disclosure.
We recommend that the Independent Advisory Group and the MPS
agree a protocol in relation to disclosure of documentation and the
rationale for decisions to Independent Advisory Group members. This
must be based on the presumption that Independent Advisory Group
members see everything that is available to the investigating officers.
Where possible, this should be before decisions are taken.
● We recommend that where Gold Groups are established in relation to
disciplinary matters, their purpose and powers are set out in writing so
that all involved are clear about their role and lines of accountability.
● We repeat our earlier recommendations on issuing of press statements and
dealing with the media.
We also recommend that no comment is made about an officer’s guilt or
innocence by the MPS until it has been established by the appropriate
decision-making body, and no embargoed interviews should be given.
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