Met chief Sir Ian Blair has taken the decision to temporarily relieve Assistant Commissioner Tarique Ghaffur of his responsibilities. Ghaffur is the assistant commissioner who has accused Sir Ian of racism. Mayor Johnson approves of the decision:
"This is a necessary move in order to restore confidence that the operational efficiency of the Met Police is not compromised. I have no intention of getting involved in employment tribunals or other inquiries but I am totally supportive of this action."
The BBC quotes the National Black Police Association, which is backing Ghaffur, as "disappointed" with an "unprecedented decision."
I've just received the Met's press statement. I quote in full:
Following consideration of the manner and impact of his recent press conference and media statements by him or, the advisors and organisations supporting him, AC Tarique Ghaffur has been temporarily relieved of his responsibilities in the Met's Central Operations Directorate. This also includes his membership of the Management Board and involvement in Olympic Games security. As a result he has been invited to go on authorised leave with immediate effect. In a statement to staff Met Commissioner Sir Ian Blair said:
"I have reflected whether operational effectiveness, leadership and confidence in the MPS as an organisation and the security and safety concerns of Londoners are being affected. It is also clear this is having a negative impact on the London 2012 Olympic Security programme and risks undermining confidence in it.
Certainly, it is the case that the interests of Londoners are not being well served by this current situation. Accordingly, I have decided that, for the time being, AC Tarique Ghaffur be temporarily relieved of his responsibilities although he will remain an assistant commissioner in the Metropolitan Police Service.
With immediate effect, I have invited DAC Chris Allison to take over temporarily the command of Central Operations, including the contribution to Olympic security.
For the avoidance of doubt, the decision has nothing to do with his actions in filing the ET application or the fact that he has made the allegations which are the subject matter of the ET claim. Rather, my decision results from the way in which he has chosen to conduct himself, for example by the manner in which statements were made in his press conference, and in conducting a media campaign, both personally and through the advisors and organisations supporting him.
It is a matter of regret that I have had to take this action but I want to make it clear that we still want to find a way to resolve his issues through a mediated process.
For the time being, AC Ghaffur is on authorised leave of absence".
More on this when I get it.
