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MPA5ScrutinyThe Authority decided in the year to look at some in-depth areas ofMPS performance by carrying out scrutiny projects. The subjectof the first project was a request by the MPS to look into rapeinvestigation and victim care.The Authority produced a report which found examples of high qualityservice provision in some boroughs. But we concluded that overallthese needed to be improved and standardised across London toensure the best possible service is provided.The scrutiny made 38 recommendations for improvement, all of whichhave been adopted by the MPS.A key recommendation identified an urgent need for three SexualAssault Referral Centres covering London to provide a first classvictim care service.The Authority is planning its second scrutiny project into Crime andDisorder Reduction Partnerships, of which the MPA will become astatutory partner in April 2003.As well as looking at how police involvement in these partnershipsworks, this scrutiny will also provide recommendations on how theMPA should fulfil its role as a statutory partner. StrategyThere was significant MPA input for the development of a mediumtermcorporate strategy for the MPS, although the launch was delayeddue to the new requirement in the Police Reform Act for policeauthorities to issue three-year strategies in March 2003. This led tothe development of ‘Towards the Safest City’ – a framework settingout the likely direction of the MPS pending further nationalrequirements from the Home Office.PlanningIn March 2001 the annual policing and performance plan waspublished. The plan contained a number of bespoke targets –targets set by borough commanders following consultation withlocal partners. This was in line with the MPA’s desire to see moredevolvement of decision-making – making policing accountableand relevant to local communities.Best valueBest value reviews play an important role in bringing aboutimprovements to policing at every level. Our members have an activerole in overseeing each review and in providing challenge to currentworking practices. MPA approvals of reviews related to consultation,crime management and records management. They are now movingtowards implementation and realisation of major savings andimprovements in performance. HMIC recently carried out anMPA/MPS annual report 2001/02