Agenda item

Report of the Commissioner of the City of London Police.

The Committee received a Report of the Commissioner of the City of London Police concerning FPNs and Stop and Search.

In response to a query, officers confirmed that the Stop and Search data was publicly available and was regularly shared with relevant community groups.

In response to a query concerning Covid-19 related Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs), officers explained that, under the legislation, constables had the power to direct someone in breach of the regulation to disperse and could, if appropriate, fine them. The regulations apply to all forces in England and Wales. Whilst, in the interests of transparency and accountability, offences are recorded, officers are encouraged to display judgement and discretion around issuing FPNs when faced with potentially more minor breaches.

Members agreed with the Chair’s proposal that, going forward, the Committee should receive Reports concerning Stop and Search data twice a year, as opposed to the current frequency of each meeting, with the proviso that if any significant change occurs Members are alerted to it in good time. The Chair asked that a senior officer take responsibility for issuing these alerts should they be required.

Members agreed with the Chair that, until the Covid restrictions are removed, FPN data should continue to be shared with the Committee at each of its meetings.

In response to a query on the Force collaborating more with the Corporation on communications around Covid compliance/enforcement and Covid related fraud, officers reassured Members that a great deal of collaborative work was taking place, and this was producing good outcomes. They remained open to further suggestions and would reach out to the Chairman of the Police Authority Board after the meeting to discuss further.

RESOLVED – that the Committee noted the Report.