What Is the Difference Between City of London Police and Metropolitan Police?

By Michael Ferguson

The United Kingdom is divided into different police forces, and two of the most prominent ones are the City of London Police and Metropolitan Police. While these two police forces may seem similar, they have distinct differences that set them apart from each other.

City of London Police

The City of London Police is a small police force responsible for policing the Square Mile, which is the financial center of London. The force was established in 1839 and has jurisdiction only within the boundaries of the City of London. This area is also referred to as the “Square Mile” since it covers an area of approximately one square mile.

Structure

The City of London Police has a unique structure compared to other police forces in England and Wales. The force is headed by a Commissioner who reports to the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen. This makes the City of London Police accountable to local government officials rather than to central government.

Powers

The City of London Police has powers similar to other police forces in England and Wales, including powers to arrest suspects and investigate crimes. However, they also have additional powers that are specific to their jurisdiction within the Square Mile. For example, they have powers to regulate traffic and issue licenses for events held on public highways.

Metropolitan Police

The Metropolitan Police is also known as Scotland Yard, and it serves Greater London, which includes all 32 boroughs plus the City of London. The force was established in 1829 and is one of the largest police forces in the world.

Unlike the City of London Police, which reports to local government officials, the Metropolitan Police reports directly to the Home Secretary, who is a member of Parliament appointed by Her Majesty’s Government. The force is headed by a Commissioner who oversees various departments such as Counter-Terrorism Command and Homicide Command.

The Metropolitan Police has similar powers to other police forces in England and Wales, including the power to arrest suspects and investigate crimes. However, they also have additional powers that are specific to their jurisdiction within Greater London. For example, they have powers to regulate public assemblies and protests.

Differences between City of London Police and Metropolitan Police

While both police forces have similar roles in maintaining law and order, there are some key differences between them.

One of the main differences is their jurisdiction. The City of London Police has jurisdiction only within the Square Mile, while the Metropolitan Police serves Greater London.

Another difference is their structure. The City of London Police reports to local government officials, while the Metropolitan Police reports directly to the Home Secretary.

Additionally, both police forces have unique powers specific to their jurisdictions. For example, the City of London Police has powers to regulate traffic and issue licenses for events held on public highways in the Square Mile, while the Metropolitan Police has powers to regulate public assemblies and protests in Greater London.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although both police forces serve Londoners by maintaining law and order, they have distinct differences that set them apart from each other. Understanding these differences can help individuals better understand how each force operates within its jurisdiction and how it fits into the larger picture of policing throughout England and Wales.