Paddick may sue Met for gay bias

Commander Brian Paddick is considering legal action against the Metropolitan Police, claiming he has been discriminated against because he is gay.

Mr Paddick, 43, is said to believe that his removal from his post as Lambeth commander was inspired by homophobia within the Met.

He is understood to have taken legal advice before the start of today's disciplinary proceedings against him, following allegations by a former partner about drug taking, according to the Financial Times.

Deputy Chief Constable Gordon Clark, of Humberside Police, has been appointed to examine Mr Paddick's admission that he allowed cannabis to be kept at the home he shared with James Renolleau.