The Metropolitan Police may face significant cuts to counter a £450 million budget shortfall, Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has warned.
Speaking to the London Assembly, Sir Mark revealed plans to reduce the force by 2300 officers and 400 staff members, a move he said would impact proactive policing efforts.
To manage resources, the Met will adopt stricter thresholds for deploying specialised units like mounted police and dog teams. Sir Mark acknowledged the force will need to become more selective in responding to incidents.
The financial strain has allegedly been exacerbated by ongoing pro-Palestinian protests, which have cost the Met over £40 million since October last year.
Last month, Sir Mark described the looming financial situation as requiring “eye-watering cuts,” underscoring the difficult choices ahead.
These measures come as the Met grapples with balancing fiscal constraints and maintaining public safety across the capital.
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