Final Report of the Morris Inquiry: The Case for Change

LESSONS FOR THE FUTURE
Lessons to be learnt
10.134 We have dealt with these four high profile cases in some detail on an
individual basis. However, it is clear that many of the criticisms that we have
endorsed, and the recommendations we have made, relate to themes which are
common to more than one of these cases.
10.135 Indeed, these high profile cases cannot, and should not, be seen in
isolation from the other cases we have looked at. In our earlier chapter on
Professional Standards, the section on The experiences of individuals comments on
many of the same issues which have been features of the high profile cases.
10.136 We believe that the MPS does not simply need to learn from cases which
are high profile, and attract extensive public and media interest, but from all the
professional standards cases for which it has responsibility.
10.137 We have commented at length on the work of DPS and have made many
recommendations which we hope will assist the directorate. However, at this stage,
as we conclude our consideration of professional standards matters in this report,
we feel compelled to highlight a number of common themes and issues we have
identified during the course of our work.
10.138 Firstly, disproportionality was an issue in a number of cases we considered.
From the evidence we have received, it is clear that DPS must ensure that it
conducts investigations in a manner which accords with the recommendations of
the Review of Operation Lancet and the normal investigative process for criminal
cases. This should improve the management of the investigation and eliminate the
potential for allegations of disproportionate investigations.
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