Priti Patel Launches Investigation Into Cressida Dick's Resignation

An official probe into how Cressida Dick was ousted from her role as Britain’s top police officer was announced today.

Home secretary Priti Patel is understood to be unhappy with the way the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan handled the Met Commissioner’s departure.  

Patel said the circumstances in which Dick was leaving her role warranted a “closer look” at the legislation which governs the removal of the commissioner. 

The investigation will be conducted by the former chief inspector of constabulary Sir Tom Winsor.

Patel also announced that Dick will leave her job in April. 

The Telegraph recently described negotiations between Dick and Khan as “extremely acrimonious” over the prospect of a gagging clause and the size of her payout. 

The country’s most senior police officer resigned last month but agreed to stay on in the post until arrangements to appoint her successor had been finalised.

In a written statement to the Commons on Monday, Priti Patel said Deputy Commissioner Sir Stephen House would temporarily cover as head of the force until the next commissioner is appointed.

The process to find a replacement is expected to conclude in the summer.