Evening Standard Comment: Inquiry into the murder of Sarah Everard must have teeth

Yesterday, we welcomed the Home Secretary’s announcement of an inquiry into the murder of Sarah Everard. However, we warned that it must have real power in order to get to the truth. It is therefore concerning that the inquiry will lack the power to compel witnesses and evidence.

It also remains vital that it has the freedom to publish what and when it wants. In order to rebuild trust between women and the police, this inquiry must have teeth. The battle to eradicate violence against women and girls from our society requires no less.

It brings a whole new meaning to “please mind the gap”. Twelve DLR trains are set to be fitted with a mindfulness carriage for the next six months so passengers can relax or meditate as they commute to work.

While it is easy to spot when someone is not wearing a mask on the Tube or talking loudly in a “quiet carriage”, it is unclear whether staff will hand out fines to those exhibiting insufficient mindfulness.