Overview

• The proposal would reduce front counters from 37 to 19, with only eight remaining open 24/7 and others limited to set hours.
• Sadiq Khan called the move pragmatic, saying money should shift from buildings to visible patrols and an upgraded command-and-control centre.
• The mayor acknowledged he knew of the plans since late last year and apologised for how the initial disclosure was handled.
• Unite warns the closures could increase unreported crime, heighten staff stress and put over 100 jobs at risk, pledging protests and opposition.
• The Met says about five per cent of crimes were reported at counters last year—roughly 50,000 cases—while Assembly members note counters also serve for safety, guidance and missing-person reports.