Met police cuts leave London with historic staffing lows

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 14:38 · Archive

The Metropolitan Police has lost 4,300 posts since 2024 and now has fewer officers per head of population than at any point in its history, according to Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes. In a recent letter, Jukes described the 'sustained pressure' facing officers and staff after years of financial constraint.

London faces particular policing challenges owing to its status as the national and international capital. The National and International Capital City grant, intended to fund responsibilities such as major demonstrations and national events, falls far short of the costs the Met actually incurs.

An MP who intervened to stop a racially motivated assault near Waterloo Bridge a few weeks ago expressed concern about the service's capacity. Although the MP provided photographs clearly identifying two of those involved, no further action was taken, with the reason given as lack of evidence despite no formal interview being conducted. The MP attributed this not to indifference from individual officers but to a service stretched beyond its limits.

How it is being reported

• Met police cuts leave London facing a stark policing gap, MP warnsA few weeks ago, I intervened to stop a racially motivated assault in broad daylight near Waterloo Bridge.This Is Local London · 21 Oct, 13:58
• Met police cuts leave London facing a stark policing gap, MP warnsA few weeks ago, I intervened to stop a racially motivated assault in broad daylight near Waterloo Bridge.Croydon Guardian · 21 Oct, 13:58

In this story: Metropolitan Police · Matt Jukes · London · Waterloo Bridge

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