02 November 2004

MPA 'very concerned' at firearms officers' protest

The Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA) has said that it is "very concerned" over a police protest which has seen more than 120 firearms officers refused to carry out their duties.

The officers are refusing to carry their weapons in solidarity with two firearms officers who were suspended over a shooting incident in 1999.

An inquest last week found that Pc Kevin Fagan and Insp Neil Sharman had unlawfully killed 46-year-old Harry Stanley during an incident outside a pub in Hackney, east London. Police were called to the area following reports that a man was in the street carrying a shotgun.

On the basis of this tip off, the officers challenged and shot Mr Stanley. It turned out that the victim had been carrying a table leg.

According to the Metropolitan Police Foundation, there were no armed response officers operating in London today.

However, the MPA said that while it understood the feelings being expressed by officers in support of their two suspended colleagues, the first priority should be the protection and reassurance of Londoners.

In a statement the MPA added: "We appeal to the specialist firearms officers who have decided not to carry firearms to urgently reconsider their position.

"There is still a judicial process continuing in relation to the Harry Stanley case and everyone should await the outcome before taking hasty action. The last five years have been extremely stressful for both the family of Harry Stanley and the two officers involved. The MPS has given considerable support to the officers and their families and will continue to do so."

The MPA said that following the verdict of the inquest jury and the announcement that the Crown Prosecution Service would review the case, the Met was "left with little option" but to suspend the officers.

(gmcg/sp)