Dru Sharpling, of the HMIC, said out-of-court disposals were a "useful tool" for new offenders, but not persistent offenders.

BBC: Watchdogs criticise out-of-court penalties

The chief crown prosecutor for London, Dru Sharpling and Director of Public Prosecutions, Ken Macdonald QC, also attended the meeting, as did a number of Metropolitan Police officers.

BBC: NEWS | UK | England | London | CPS rules out Lawrence prosecution