Blunkett lifts threat to take over Yard

Home Secretary David Blunkett today lifted a threat to send in his own managers to take over the running of Scotland Yard.

Mr Blunkett first made the threat in the Evening Standard in February 2002, giving Met bosses two years to "make a difference" as street crime threatened to spiral out of control.

But today he told the Standard police chiefs were no longer on probation - and promised fresh action in areas where street crime is still a problem.

The move came on the eve of a major conference, sponsored by the Standard, on London's criminal justice system.

The Urban Justice - Delivering A Safer London conference will bring together 400 delegates from key parts of the criminal justice system.

They include Scotland Yard Commissioner Sir John Stevens, London's chief crown prosecutor, Home Office officials, Solicitor-General Harriet Harman and prison and probation service chiefs.

Today Mr Blunkett, asked if Scotland Yard was still on probation, said: "No, it isn't. They have done a first rate job. They have shown a real enthusiasm for reform."