The Metropolitan Police has come under fire after it was revealed their dedicated Inclusion and Diversity unit has cost taxpayers nearly £5 million over the past five years, despite the force facing a severe crisis in public confidence and record-low crime resolution rates.
The Price of Progressive Policing
According to figures obtained through Freedom of Information requests, the Met's controversial 'woke' taskforce employed up to 21 staff members at its peak, with the team costing approximately £4.8 million between 2019 and 2024. This substantial investment occurred while the force struggled with solving crimes and maintaining public trust.
Mounting Criticism and Public Backlash
The revelation has sparked outrage among policing experts and taxpayers alike. Critics argue that these resources would be better spent addressing the capital's pressing crime issues, particularly as solved crimes have plummeted to just 9.7% across London.
Key findings from the investigation include:
- The diversity team cost £1.2 million in the last year alone
- At its maximum strength, the unit employed 21 people
- Public confidence in the Met has dropped to just 51%
- Only 20% of Londoners believe the police can be relied upon
Leadership Under Scrutiny
The figures have raised serious questions about the Met's priorities under recent leadership. Former Commissioner Cressida Dick initially established the unit, and her successor Sir Mark Rowley has maintained the commitment to diversity initiatives despite the force's operational challenges.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson defended the expenditure, stating: "We are building a Met that represents all the communities we serve. To do this we must attract and retain officers and staff from all backgrounds."
The Bigger Picture
This controversy emerges against a backdrop of significant challenges for Britain's largest police force. With solved crimes at record lows and public trust eroding, many are questioning whether diversity initiatives should take precedence over core policing functions during a time of crisis.
The debate continues as Londoners await to see whether the Met can balance its commitment to inclusivity with the urgent need to combat crime effectively across the capital.
