UK’s biggest police force cannot sack officers by removing vetting clearance

A High Court ruling that the Metropolitan Police cannot dismiss officers by removing their vetting clearance “has significant implications for the work the Met is now doing to clean up the force”, the Mayor of London has said.

Sergeant Lino Di Maria successfully mounted a legal challenge, supported by the Metropolitan Police Federation, after having his vetting removed over sexual assault allegations, which he denies.

He was found to have no case to answer in respect of misconduct allegations, and argued that having his vetting removed without the accusations being proved is a breach of his right to a fair trial.

The Metropolitan Police maintained that it would be left in a “hopeless position” if it could not dismiss officers after removing their vetting clearance because of allegations of sexual or domestic abuse.

Reacting to the ruling on Tuesday by Mrs Justice Lang, London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “This decision has significant implications for the work the Met is now doing to clean up the force, raise standards and rid the police of all those unfit to serve.

“I have long been clear that there can be no hiding place for those who abuse their position of trust and authority within the police. Working alongside the Met Commissioner, I want no let-up in the vital work being carried out to raise standards and rebuild public confidence in the Met.

“No-one who has failed vetting should continue to serve in the force and we will work closely with the Commissioner, the Home Office and partners to assess the implications of this ruling.”

Published: 11/02/2025 by Radio NewsHub