Britain's most senior Asian policeman, who has brought a discrimination case against the Metropolitan Police, has been temporarily relieved of his duties, Scotland Yard said on Tuesday. Assistant Commissioner Tarique Ghaffur will go on immediate leave following publicity surrounding his claim for racial discrimination.
His role includes supervising the security for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Met Commissioner Ian Blair said the "manner and impact" of Ghaffur's statements and those of his supporters was having a "negative impact" on these preparations.
"I have reflected whether operational effectiveness, leadership and confidence in the MPS as an organisation and the security and safety concerns of Londoners are being affected," Blair said in a statement.
"It is also clear this is having a negative impact on the London 2012 Olympic Security programme and risks undermining confidence in it." He added: "Certainly, it is the case that the interests of Londoners are not being well served by this current situation. "Accordingly, I have decided that, for the time being, AC Tarique Ghaffur be temporarily relieved of his responsibilities although he will remain an assistant commissioner."
Blair said the decision was not linked to the discrimination claim against himself, but rather it was influenced by "the way in which he has chosen to conduct himself".
"For example by the manner in which statements were made in his press conference, in conducting a media campaign, both personally and through the advisors and organisations supporting him," Blair added.
"It is a matter of regret that I have had to take this action but I want to make it clear that we still want to find a way to resolve his issues through a mediated process." Mayor of London Boris Johnson backed Blair's decision, saying it was necessary to restore confidence. Ghaffur launched a claim for racial and religious discrimination against Blair at an employment tribunal last month. The allegations involve Blair and other senior figures in the Met.