Scotland Yard police chief's term extended despite criticism

The British government says the country's most senior police officer will stay in her job for another two years

LONDON -- Britain’s most senior police officer will stay in her job for another two years, the government announced Friday. The decision comes despite criticism of her force over its handling of some investigations and policing of protests. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick will remain at the helm of the London force until April 2024. Her five-year contract had been due to end next year. Home Secretary Priti Patel said the extension would provide “continuity and stability as we emerge from the coronavirus pandemic and recruit 20,000 additional police officers.” Dick is the first woman to head Britain’s biggest and oldest police force, which was founded in 1829.