Met Police Commissioner: Abuse review will reassure public
Met Police Commissioner, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, has said the aim of an independent judge-led review into how the force handled allegations of past sex abuse against leading public figures, is to reassure the public about the conduct of the police.
Sir Bernard said he believes High Court judge Sir Richard Henriques, who will conduct the inquiry, is a "serious and credible figure" who will conduct a "professional" review.
He added that he hopes the review will also give the police guidance on how to handle historical sexual abuse allegations in the future.
In relation to criticism of the way the police dealt with claims against 92-year-old Lord Bramall, which included a raid on his home while he was having breakfast with his terminally-ill wife, Sir Bernard reiterated "his regret" for any distress caused but refused to apologise.
Sir Bernard also denied any link between the review being announced and the speculation around whether his current contract will be renewed for longer than a year.
He said: "It's not for me to decide what happens to my contract...I am determined to lead the Metropolitan Police to the best of my ability, to stay focused on keeping the great city of London safe...I can only do my best."