The Police and Crime Committee of the Greater London Authority Council met on Wednesday 14 October 2026 to discuss a range of critical issues affecting policing and criminal justice in London. Key topics included the impact of the prison early release scheme, the effectiveness of electronic tagging, the handling of high-profile investigations, and the Metropolitan Police Service's (MPS) response times for 999 calls. The Committee noted the report and discussion, and delegated authority to the Chairman, in consultation with party Group lead members, to agree any output arising from the discussion.

Early Release Scheme and its Impact on Policing

The Committee engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the Government's early release scheme for prisoners and its impact on the MPS. Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, and Temporary Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, MPS, acknowledged the significant pressure this scheme is placing on an already challenged criminal justice system. Concerns were raised about the potential for increased crime and re-offending, with projections indicating an additional 10% on top of general release numbers. While the MPS is tracking offenders and their re-offending rates, definitive answers on the specific types of offences expected to increase the most were not available.

Assembly Member Marina Ahmad highlighted the historical underfunding of the criminal justice system, while Assembly Member Emma Best questioned the Deputy Mayor's support for the early release scheme, drawing parallels to past government actions. The discussion also touched upon the effectiveness of electronic tagging, with the Assistant Commissioner stating that the system is not working as it should be, citing a 95% lack of consequence for tag breaches and a significant daily volume of breaches in London. Representations have been made to the Government regarding electronic monitoring, with suggestions for tags to be fitted at court or in prison.

The Committee also explored the MPS's approach to identifying and managing high-harm offenders, including the development of an offender control platform that prioritises efforts based on threat, risk, and harm. The Deputy Mayor confirmed that MOPAC has been working with partners through the London Criminal Justice Board to model the potential implications of the early release scheme, and that certain offences, such as unlawful killing, rape, sexual offences, and child exploitation, have been excluded from the cohort.

Handling of High-Profile Investigations and Data Breaches

The Committee raised concerns about the MPS's handling of data in high-profile cases, referencing instances such as the Al Fayed case, the Westminster honeytrap case, the Caroline Flack case, and the investigation into Peter Mandelson. Assembly Member Benali Hamdache questioned whether there was a systematic problem with data handling and if lessons had been learned from previous incidents. The Temporary Assistant Commissioner acknowledged that lessons had been learned and that measures such as email prompts and additional training for officers were being implemented. However, the Committee expressed concerns about the potential for human error and the need for robust safeguards.

The discussion also touched upon the MPS's Special Enquiry Team (SET), which investigates complex and high-profile cases. While the team is experienced and well-linked with other agencies, concerns were raised about potential data breaches and the need for greater transparency. The Deputy Mayor committed to further discussions on these matters in a private briefing.

999 Response Calls and Technology

The Committee received an update on the MPS's performance in answering 999 calls within ten seconds. While performance has improved significantly, it remains below the national target. The Assistant Commissioner expressed an aspiration to meet the target by the end of the year, citing improvements in call handling through measures such as a 101 divert scheme and a 999 to 101 transfer scheme. The Deputy Mayor confirmed that MOPAC is actively tracking this and has invested £2.5 million in supporting the MPS's improvement efforts.

The potential use of AI in call handling was also discussed, with the Assistant Commissioner confirming that AI tools are being considered to help triage calls. Safeguards, ethics, and transparency were highlighted as key considerations, with assurances that decisions would remain traceable to human beings. The Deputy Mayor noted MOPAC's investment in technology to improve MetCC and the importance of ensuring that AI implementation is transparent and that concerns are discussed.

Domestic Burglary and Outer London Concerns

The Committee discussed disparities in domestic burglary rates between inner and outer London, with a noted increase in outer London. While overall burglaries have decreased since 2016, the trend for the last year showed a disparity, with reductions primarily in inner London. Concerns were raised about the increased use of private security patrols in outer London, suggesting a potential lack of confidence in the MPS's ability to keep streets safe. The MPS highlighted its focus on neighbourhood policing, dedicated burglary patrols, and the use of specialist officers to tackle linked series of crimes. The issue of parcel thefts contributing to unconnected building burglaries was also raised as a complex problem requiring multi-agency solutions.

Notting Hill Carnival

The policing of Notting Hill Carnival was discussed, with a focus on the additional investment of £4.66 million from the Mayor aimed at improving safety. While serious violence saw a reduction, there was an increase in overall crime. The effectiveness of additional stewarding was highlighted, enabling police to concentrate on crime prevention. The economic benefits of Carnival were acknowledged, with discussions around its financial sustainability and the potential for increased sponsorship and other income streams. Concerns were also raised about the pressure on police officers working long shifts during the event and the need for a sustainable approach to policing large-scale events.

Other Matters

The Committee also received updates on the MPS's Estate Strategy, with a commitment to provide a list of realised assets. Discussions also touched upon the MPS's approach to handling high-profile investigations, with assurances of victim-centred and risk-led approaches, supported by oversight and governance. The Committee noted the ongoing work on the MPS's work programme and the date of the next meeting.

The meeting concluded with thanks to the guests for their contributions and answers. The Committee noted the report and discussion, and delegated authority to the Chairman, in consultation with party Group lead members, to agree any output arising from the meeting.