Ms Smith said on Thursday she's concerned the panels could become a forum for political meddling. -- PHOTO: AFP
LONDON - BRITAIN'S Home Secretary Jacqui Smith says she has ditched plans for police departments to be supervised by elected oversight boards.
Ms Smith said on Thursday she's concerned the panels could become a forum for political meddling.
Some lawmakers worry far-right or extremist groups would attempt to win a disproportionate influence on the panels.
British police are currently supervised by appointed representatives from local councils.
Worries over political interference in policing were heightened after London's ex-police chief Ian Blair resigned in October.
He quit following disputes with London Mayor Boris Johnson, a member of the main opposition Conservative Party. Mr Blair was regarded by some as close to the governing Labour Party. -- AP
