Anti-Terror Chief Resigns Over Security Blunder

Britain's top counter-terror officer has resigned today following a security blunder which threatened a major anti-terror operation.

Assistant Commissioner Bob Quick, was forced to stand down from his position after he inadvertently revealed secret papers to photographers as he arrived for a meeting at Downing Street yesterday.

London Mayor Boris Johnson said he had accepted the senior chief's resignation "with great sadness".

Assistant Commissioner John Yates will replace Quick as head of counter-terrorism, the mayor said.

In a statement, he said: "Last evening I contacted the Metropolitan Police Authority to inform them of my intention to offer my resignation.

"I have today offered my resignation in the knowledge that my action could have compromised a major counter terrorism operation.

"I deeply regret the disruption caused to colleagues undertaking the operation and remain grateful for the way in which they adapted quickly and professionally to a revised timescale."

Asst Comm Quick faced intense criticism after he was photographed clutching sensitive documents as he arrived for a meeting with the Prime Minister and the Home Secretary.

The top sheet of the file, included names of terror suspects, locations and officers involved in the operation.

It was clearly visible to photographers and cameramen.

Police subsequently swooped on addresses in Cheetham Hill, Manchester, Liverpool - including John Moores University - and Clitheroe, Lancs, fearing the suspects would be tipped off about the planned operation.

In a statement, Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said she had been informed of Mr Quick's resignation by Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson.

She said: "Although the operation was successful, he felt that his position was untenable. I want to offer my sincere appreciation of all the outstanding work he has done in this role."

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Grayling said he felt the resignation was the "right thing to do".

He added: "My own view privately was I didn’t see how he could possibly stay. I think Mr Quick had made his position completely untenable, not just in the eyes of the public but also within the organisation.

"At the end of the day the buck has to stop somewhere. This is a serious breach that could have jeopardised and may have impacted on a very serious investigation into a possible terror threat."

(JM/BMcC)