Packed audience for Sir Ian Blair lecture

Former Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Sir Ian Blair, spoke about terrorism and reform of the police force during a lecture at the University of Wolverhampton.

Sir Ian, one of the UK's most informed speakers on strategic policing and security matters, gave a free public lecture about his experiences in the top policing role in the country.

A packed audience of staff and students listened to a lecture giving his perspective on the Met, policing on the street and leadership and resilience under pressure.
The lecture on Tuesday, 9 February was organised by terrorism and conflict expert, Dr George Kassimeris, who welcomed Sir Ian to the University and praised his 30 years of hard work to reach the top of his profession.

Sir Ian held the top policing job in the country from 2004-08. After only five months in the role of commissioner, the July 7 bombings on buses and tubes hit London in the worst terrorist atrocity in English history.

As commissioner, Sir Ian had the difficult task of treading a skilful line in keeping the public and the media on side, as well as the politicians. He led a force of 53,000 police officers and other staff, and managed a £3bn annual budget, in the battle to keep crime under control and terrorism at bay. In addition, Sir Ian oversaw an immense programme of change management within the police force.

Following his resignation in 2008, Sir Ian wrote his autobiography, 'Policing Controversy', published by Profile books and is available from all major bookstores and online.