THE Mayor of London has stood down as chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA).

After 15 months, Boris Johnson is quitting the position after putting in place the MPA’s strategic direction for policing in London over the next three years.

He has nominated his deputy mayor for policing, Kit Malthouse, as chair of the MPA, and Reshard Auladin, an independent member, as vice chair.

Mayor Boris Johnson said: “During my time as chair of the MPA, I have found it to be an honour to work alongside the men and women of the Met and experience at first hand their loyalty, bravery and commitment to keeping Londoners safe.

“I am also grateful to members and staff of the MPA for their contribution to policing in London, in particular for their roles in scrutiny and oversight of the Met.

“But let it be clear that as London’s directly elected Mayor, I still retain control over policing in the capital and will continue to maintain a relationship with Commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson."

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