Met police criticised: "I'm hugely disappointed"

Two former senior Scotland Yard bosses have criticised the Metropolitan Police after eight officers were suspended over allegations of racism.

Retired Flying Squad commander John O'Connor said managers should have been pro-active after the force was accused in 1999 of "institutional racism".

Former Det Ch Insp David Michael said the force had to demonstrate its commitment to tackling the issue.

The force has said racist language is "abhorrent" and not tolerated.