Metropolitan Police chief launches recruitment drive for more Black and Asian officers

Mark Rowley, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, has announced a major recruitment campaign aimed at increasing the number of Black and Asian officers within the force. Rowley stated that recruiting from all of London's diverse population is an “operational necessity” rather than a political move.

He emphasized that inclusivity is vital to maintaining “policing by consent,” a principle that relies on the trust of all communities. Rowley noted that while 46% of London's population is from a minority ethnic background, only 18% of Metropolitan Police officers are. He vowed not to be “blown off course by the culture wars” or the “toxicity” surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) debates, asserting that an inclusive workforce improves the ability to protect victims and prevent crime.