Stephenson becomes new Met chief
By politics.co.uk staff
Sir Paul Stephenson has become the new Metropolitan Police commissioner, taking over From Sir Ian Blair.
He previously served under Sir Ian as deputy chief.
Jacqui Smith, home secretary, said: “It is a real pleasure for me to be able to announce Sir Paul as the new commissioner of the Metropolitan police.
“In an extremely strong field of candidates he stood out at every stage in a long and testing recruitment process.”
She praised his “strong vision” that was necessary for tackling the challenges that lay ahead, including the need for significant reform, and his record on neighbourhood policing
“Sir Paul offers the expertise and leadership need to inspire confidence across the entire service.
“He won the confidence of everyone during the interview process and I wish him all the best in his new role.”
Sir Paul Stephenson said he was a “hugely proud policeman”
“My job is clear, we’ve got to ensure we cut crime, deal with crime and convince communities we are on their side… and be intolerant of violence no matter where it comes from.”
Boris Johnson, London mayor, said he “agreed with everything Jacqui and Sir Paul had said”, adding that he planted his flag very clearly in the middle of this “glutinous cross party agreement”
“Sir Paul was an outstanding candidate… What Londoners need is a man who is going to produce common sense policing, deliver results, focus on driving down crime across the city and inspiring trust in communities.”
I’m sure he’s going to get off to a flying start.”
His new role, which has not yet been confirmed, follows one of the most turbulent and political period in the Met’s leadership.
Sir Ian left his role in October after it became clear he did not have the support of London’s mayor.
Sir Paul was offered his job by Ms Smith, whose decision it is to take, but she conducted meetings with Mr Johnson beforehand, reflecting some of the constitutional confusion which has surrounded the change at the top.
Sir Paul has been acting in the role since Sir Ian left, dealing with the fallout of the arrest of shadow immigration minister Damian Green.
His only competition was Sir Hugh Orde, chief constable of Northern Ireland.
