'Regret' over top officer's book

Ch Supt Ali Dizaei was cleared at the Old Bailey in 2003

The Metropolitan Police force has expressed regret that a top officer has published a book documenting his fight against allegations of corruption.

Ch Supt Ali Dizaei's book Not One of Us details a series of attacks on the force and fellow high-ranking officers.

A four-year investigation cleared him of perverting the course of justice and misconduct in public office.

Scotland Yard said Mr Dizaei admitted his conduct fell below the standards expected of an officer in two areas.

Spying for Iran

A statement acknowledged there were "exceptional circumstances" surrounding the case and that it believed all those involved had since moved on.

"Although we do not believe it is in the best interests of the MPS to see this book published, neither do we believe that it is in the Met's best interests to prevent its publication," it said.

"We do not believe that criticism of Chief Superintendent Barry Norman, other members of the investigating team or other Metropolitan Police Service individuals cited in the book is either fair or warranted."

It concluded: "We repeat our regret that he chooses to publish this book (and) believe that these matters are now best put behind us".

Integrity tests

In the book Mr Dizaei details his experiences after being accused of spying for Iran, using prostitutes, corruption and drug abuse.

Mr Dizaei strongly criticises Ch Supt Barry Norman, who led the investigating team, codenamed Operation Helios.

He also describes how investigators scrutinised the bank accounts of his father and brother and undercover officers attempted to befriend him and give him "integrity tests".

Although he admits making mistakes, and that he has changed, he believes his account of his struggles may damage attempts to recruit more officers from ethnic minorities.

Mr Dizaei was cleared of two dishonesty charges at the Old Bailey in 2003.