A NORTH Police and Crime Commissioner has condemned the Met Police chief’s suggestion that alleged victims of sexual abuse should not be automatically believed.

Yesterday (Thursday), Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe said officers should not believe complainants “unconditionally” and claims should be investigated with an “open mind”.

The proposal by Britain’s most senior police officer goes against the current policy of presuming claims to be true.

He further suggested suspects should be given anonymity before they are charged because “reputations may be tarnished”.

Sir Bernard has faced sustained criticism over Scotland Yard’s handling of Operation Midland, into claims of a Westminster paedophile ring, but Home Secretary Theresa May has extended his contract by one year.

His comments were condemned by Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and former Redcar MP and Labour Solicitor General Vera Baird, who said: “Thousands of victims of sexual abuse have been denied justice through the attitude the Met Commissioner now advocates.

“Sexual abuse is extremely difficult to report, because of its intimate nature and its undermining impact on victims.

“They have to be told that police will not doubt them as they have habitually done in the past but will believe them as they do in any other kind of complaint, ensure that they get support and investigate the case thoroughly.”

Durham PCC Ron Hogg, a former senior officer, said: “It is important that the police treat all victims of crime fairly and carry out full investigations in order to be able to arrive at the truth.

“Victims of sex abuse must have the confidence to approach the police and to know that their complaint will be treated seriously."

Cleveland PCC Barry Coppinger said: “I’m committed to getting a better deal for victims and have done a considerable amount of working tackling violence against women and girls.

“I’m concerned such statements deter victims, when we should be encouraging and supporting them.”

North Yorkshire PCC Julia Mulligan said: “It’s vitally important victims know their stories are going to be taken seriously and they will be believed and not dismissed before an investigation can take place. If that’s not the case, victims will not come forward.”