National implications of the review of rape investigation in London

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Adult Sex Offences, Assistant Commissioner Martin Hewitt said:

“This important report, commissioned by the Metropolitan Police (MPS) and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), allows the MPS and CPS to review the way they investigate and prosecute rape.  It also gives us an opportunity to look at the recommendations from a national perspective to see what lessons can be learnt across policing in England and Wales.

“Dame Elish Angiolini raises a number of very important issues about the first response to rape victims, the welfare of staff working in this area and the crucial relationships with both the CPS and healthcare providers.

“The Commissioner and the MPS have provided a very comprehensive response to the report's findings and there is a clear action plan. Many aspects of the response link to the National Rape Action Plan that we launched along with the Director of Public Prosecutions; I look forward to working closely with the CPS as we continue to improve our service in this critical area.”

Read the full report here