Kent police chief to head Met

PAUL CONDON, Chief Constable of Kent, is expected to be named today as the next Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, police sources said last night, write Dean Nelson and David Connett. He will replace Sir Peter Imbert on his retirement.

Mr Condon, 45, was chosen by the Home Secretary ahead of more experienced officers, because of his youth and experience in sensitive areas of policing.

He joined the force in 1967 and served as staff officer to the former Commissioner, Sir Kenneth Newman. He was promoted to Assistant Commissioner before taking over in Kent, where he has been responsible for policing the Channel Tunnel. He is best known for his handling of the Notting Hill carnival during strained police relations with the community.