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Lord Blair, the former Metropolitan Police commissioner, has passed away at the age of 72. Leading the UK’s largest police force from 2005 to 2008, he was in charge during the 7/7 bombings. His death was confirmed by a spokesperson from the Met Police after a brief illness. Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley expressed sorrow at Lord Blair’s passing, describing him as one of the most influential police leaders in recent times. London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan honored Blair’s dedication to public service and extended condolences to his family.
Ian Blair’s career as a senior police officer was abruptly ended when he was dismissed from his role at Scotland Yard by then-Mayor Boris Johnson. Despite controversy surrounding the death of Jean Charles de Menezes, Blair managed to retain his position. De Menezes, a Brazilian electrician, was fatally shot by Met Police firearms officers at Stockwell Tube station in July 2005 under the mistaken belief that he was a suicide bomber. Blair’s tenure came to an end when Johnson, who had assumed control of the Police Authority, expressed dissatisfaction with his performance.
Born in Chester in 1953, Blair joined the Met in 1974 through the graduate entry scheme. He climbed the ranks, showcasing his skills in both uniform and detective roles. Blair led high-profile investigations, including the response to the King’s Cross fire in 1987. After serving as chief constable of Surrey Police, he returned to the Met as deputy commissioner and later ascended to the role of commissioner in 2005, just before the tragic London bombings that claimed 52 lives.
Following his resignation, Blair became Lord Blair of Boughton, a title reflecting his ties to Cheshire, in 2010. Knighted in 1999, he was admired for his leadership during challenging times, notably the aftermath of the terror attacks in July 2005. Sir Mark highlighted Blair’s significant contributions to enhancing policing strategies, particularly in handling rape cases with sensitivity and foresight. Even after leaving the Met, Lord Blair remained a supportive figure for policing and law enforcement officials, offering valuable insights from his position in the House of Lords
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