Royal police 'cover-ups' denied

The former head of the Met Police's royalty protection division has denied covering up "embarrassing" incidents.

Peter Prentice was speaking at the trial of former protection officer Paul Page, who is accused of cheating investors out of their life savings.

Ex-chief superintendent Mr Prentice, who retired after a 39-year police career - including guarding the Queen - said he was in charge of discipline.

Mr Page, 38, of Grays, Essex, denies fraudulent trading and intimidation.

He is accused of taking money from colleagues and others to set up a false investment scheme to finance a life of luxury.

The trial, at Southwark Crown Court, has previously heard allegations that officers responsible for guarding the Queen and other royals took photos of each other sitting on thrones, played poker and exchanged pornography.

Mr Prentice said he was all too aware of his responsibility in ensuring only the right officers carried arms.

'Important decision'

During the seven years he commanded the 450-strong unit he dealt with disciplinary issues and remembered one officer being arrested for drink-driving, he said.

As chief superintendent it was his "responsibility to authorise each and every officer on the division to carry a firearm.

"It was probably the most important decision I had to make and my heaviest responsibility.

"If for any reason I considered it unwise for the officer to carry a firearm, even for one day, or an extended period then I would remove that firearm. The reasons could be anything from personal problems, family problems and up to more significant issues."

During questioning, the defendant, who is representing himself, asked him: "Have you ever covered up any embarrassment at Royalty?"

"Such as what?" the witness responded.

"How about officers forging their firearms certificates to carry on taking out their guns?" Page told him.

"I can't remember."

The defendant: "Did you know two people who did that and both were removed? Can you remember any of those incidents?"

"I had 450 officers and was there six to seven years," said Mr Prentice.

But as the exchange continued he agreed forging firearms certificates would be a "very serious thing indeed" and mean "illegally carrying a firearm".

Page: "Did you catch any officers forging their certificates?"

"If they had been brought to my attention they would have been dealt with. If I could remember I would say yes or no."

The trial continues.