Public sector strikes could hinder police work, says Met chief

Days after nurses vote to strike, Sir Mark Rowley warns of officers being distracted by health-related calls

Police will be forced to provide crucial care and health assistance which will hamper efforts to fight crime during public sector strikes, Britain's most senior officer has warned.

The Metropolitan police commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley, claimed officers were having to spend more time keeping an eye on mentally ill and vulnerable patients in A&E departments instead of catching criminals.