Met officer in honours rule breach charge

A SENIOR Metropolitan police officer is being investigated over claims she breached rules about honours nominations.

Temporary Chief Supt Parm Sandhu is understood to have been served a “gross misconduct” investigation notice which could result in her facing a serious disciplinary charge and even dismissal.

The officer, who is the most senior Asian woman in Scotland Yard, has been placed on restricted duties amid claims she encouraged colleagues to support her nomination for a Queen’s Police Medal, the BBC reported.

Two other officers, a detective superintendent and an inspector both from frontline policing, are also under investigation and were given misconduct notices in connection with the allegations.

However, they remain on full duties.

Last month Ms Sandhu tweeted that she “will be promoted to Chief Supt in Met” and said she will be the first woman of colour to hold the rank.

In 2006 she was presented with the Public Sector Award at the Asian Women of Achievement Awards in part for her work in the aftermath of the July 7 London bombings. The Queen’s Police Medal is given to serving UK officers in recognition of courage in the line of duty or distinguished service. It is awarded in the Queen’s Birthday and then the New Year Lists.

National Police Chief Council guidelines state that “any person” can nominate another person for the prestigious honour. Like any other honours system, peo-

‘A temporary chief superintendent was served with a gross misconduct notice’

ple are not expected to put themselves forward for honours and are not meant to know whether they are being considered for the award.

Some 27 current and former members of the police service were included in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list last month.

A Met spokesman said: “A temporary chief superintendent currently attached to Human Resources was served with a gross misconduct notice on Wednesday 27 June and has been placed on restricted duties.

“Two other officers… were served with misconduct notices… Enquiries continue.”

Ms Sandhu was not available for comment.