Let's face it The Met is crap and needs to be fixed. Our problem is our old boy networks, Freemasonry, deadwood, you name it. Anyone who has had the misfortune to deal with the SNT sergeants, inspector or the SNT rank-and-file in Ealing know that it is a total disaster. For example, late night Ealing is out of control, in particular the bars around Ealing Green and the crowds of druggies that gather there every night on the Green. If anything happens it is a one hour response time. Again you go on my ideology, what ideology Brooksie, White, and the others. Not everyone's life is polarised by party politics some of us don't actually believe what we are told by the political parties and look beneath the surface. Overall, Tory cuts have affected policing massively in this country, though Khan and London bears some further scrutiny: Sadiq Khan, the Metropolitan Police, and real estate sales. Metropolitan Police Recruitment Funding:The Metropolitan Police faced recruitment challenges, and the government had earmarked funding for police recruitment across the country under the Police Uplift Programme.However, the Met was the only force in the country that failed to meet its recruitment targets. As a result, it lost £30.8 million in Home Office grant funding for the scheme in 2022-231.Sadiq Khan’s office has emphasized that he is committed to supporting the Met’s recruitment efforts. Despite government cuts, he has invested significantly in elevating police officer numbers in London1.Real Estate Sales and Funding:The Met Police has raised approximately £600 million through the sale of real estate since Khan came to power2.However, it’s essential to consider the broader context:The Met has faced challenges, including high-profile incidents that affected public trust and confidence3.Khan has been accused of financial mismanagement, but it’s crucial to recognize that the situation is multifaceted.Khan’s administration has also focused on quality over quantity when it comes to police officers, aiming for the highest standards rather than merely meeting recruitment targets.Crime and Public Perception:Crime rates in London are nuanced. While some accuse Khan of allowing crime to soar, data shows that someone is less likely to be a victim of crime in London than across the country as a whole.The murder rate in London has dropped in recent years.In summary, the situation is complex, and attributing it solely to “Tory cuts” or Khan’s management oversimplifies the challenges faced by the Met. Financial decisions, recruitment efforts, and crime prevention strategies all play a role. It’s essential to consider multiple factors when evaluating the performance of any administration
Mark Hammond ● 271d