Sir Peter Fahy denies whistleblower's claims he created a 'culture of cronyism' when he was chief constable

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Former chief constable of Greater Manchester Police Sir Peter Fahy has mounted a robust defence in the face of allegations from a force whistleblower that he created a 'culture of cronyism' that promoted under-qualified officers into senior positions.

He spoke out today (Thursday) as a witness at the continuing employment tribunal of retired officer Pete Jackson, 59, who has made a string of sensational corruption allegations, including claims that he was sidelined and passed over for promotion for making a series of 'protected disclosures'.

Sir Peter, who spent seven years as chief constable of GMP, insisted he had improved the promotion process and made the 'quasi-military' organisation far more open to challenging voices. "I ddn't want a force of nodding dogs," said Sir Peter. READ MORE:Manchester's busiest restaurants all RESERVED tonight - this is why The retired senior officer was questioned about his time at the helm by Mr Jackson's lawyer Declan O'Dempsey, and he denied an allegation he had harmed the public by promoting people into senior positions who weren't up to the job.

Mr O'Dempsey asked the former chief constable about allegations Mr Jackson made that GMP was blighted by a 'culture of cronyism' which saw people promoted to senior positions on the basis of close relationships with senior officers rather skill, ability and experience.