A recent report has revealed that the Metropolitan Police Service (Met) operates a two-tier system in handling protests, effectively prioritizing the rights of certain demonstrators over those of the wider public. The assessment, conducted by the Policy Exchange think tank, argues that this approach has contributed to a decline in public confidence in the force and damaged its reputation for fairness.

The report criticizes the Met for inconsistent application of police powers, suggesting that some groups receive more lenient treatment based on the cause or identity of the protesters. Citing an example from October 2023, the Met imposed stringent conditions on a UK Independence Party (Ukip) demonstration in Tower Hamlets, a borough with a high Muslim population, citing concerns for local residents. The report contends that similar restrictions have not been applied with the same rigor for protests involving the Jewish community or other groups, highlighting a perceived unequal standard in policing.

The think tank also links rising crime rates in London to policing strategies under Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan’s administration, particularly the reduction of stop and search operations. According to the report, the number of stolen mobile phones reached 81,279 last year, while shoplifting incidents tripled over four years to 93,705 offences in 2024/25. It accuses the mayor of diminishing police oversight and urges the Home Secretary to assume greater responsibility over the Met, rather than the mayor.

The Met’s performance figures further underline challenges facing the force. It reportedly identifies suspects in only one out of every 20 robberies and burglaries, one in 13 shoplifting incidents, and one in 179 street muggings. Additionally, Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has expressed concern over the failure to electronically tag nearly a third of offenders in London who should be monitored, noting that around 150 tagged individuals breach their restrictions each week. These issues have been described as part of broader “stretch and strain” affecting the criminal justice system.

Metropolitan Police Commander Hayley Sewart responded by highlighting ongoing efforts under the “New Met for London” plan, which she said is producing meaningful improvements and contributing to a decline in crime across the capital. A spokesperson for Sir Sadiq Khan described the mayor’s commitment to public safety as paramount, pointing to a record £1.6 billion funding package for the police in the current year.

The report’s findings raise complex questions about balancing the rights of protest groups with broader public safety concerns amid rising crime rates and strained policing resources in London.