Cressida Dick: West Midlands Police Chief Constable reveals sadness that Met boss has stepped aside

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick has announced that she is resigning from the force.

She issued a statement yesterday (February 10) which has prompted a series of responses.

Dame Cressida is leaving the Met following a series of damaging controversies.

Among those who have responded to the announcement on her plans to resign are West Midlands Police Chief Constable Dave Thompson, who told of his sadness that his friend is leaving her job in a tweet.

The post read: “Cress is a hugely respected colleague and friend. Very sad news tonight.”

Mr Thompson previously announced his plans to retire after the Commonwealth Games.

You can read his tweet below

Last week the police watchdog, Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), found “disgraceful” misogyny, discrimination and sex harassment among some Met PCs.

Dame Cressida, the first woman to lead the biggest UK police force, also faced criticism over the Sarah Everard case.

Ms Everard was murdered by a serving Met Police officer, Wayne Couzens, in March last year.

What does Dame Cressida Dick’s statement say?

In her statement about her resignation she said: “It is with huge sadness that following contact with the Mayor of London it is clear that he no longer has sufficient confidence in my leadership of the Met to continue.

“He has left me no choice but to step aside as Commissioner.

“At his request, I have agreed to stay on for a short period to ensure the stability of the Met and its leadership while arrangements are made for a transition to a new Commissioner.

“Undertaking this role as a servant of the people of London and the UK has been the greatest honour and privilege of my life.

“Thank you to everyone in the Met and those who work with us for the extraordinary efforts you make each and every day.

“The public depend on you, for your professionalism, courage, compassion and integrity.

“You make a huge difference to people’s lives every day. I salute you.”

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