Payouts down as Met complaints fall

Claims and complaints against police in London have fallen after reaching a record level two years ago, new figures reveal today.

The Metropolitan Police paid out £2.6million in damages in the last financial year 2000/2001, compared to a record nearly £4million the previous year, the highest ever paid by a single force.

The total number of civil actions brought against the Met for matters such as wrongful arrest fell by 13per cent on the previous year to a total of 693.

Complaints from the public about the conduct and performance of police in London were also lower last year, according to the figures released by the police.

There was a total of 3,786 complaints against the Met last year, a 14per cent fall on the previous year. The number of racial discrimination complaints also fell by 18 per cent.

Acting Commander Simon Bray, head of Misconduct and Claims, said: "These figures reflect the concerted efforts the Metropolitan Police and our Police Authority are making to reduce mistakes and improve the levels of service."

Police also say the fall in the damages payout is a sign that the Met is getting tougher in defending its officers rather than settling regardless of their innocence or guilt.

Actions settled by the Met fell from 435 to 235 last year. This included 15 cases that went to court when damages costing £340,000 were paid out.