At the time of giving evidence, Baker was Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary having been appointed in 2009. Gave details of his personal experience with the media while carrying out this role, as well as reflecting on the relationship of the Essex Police, where he had been Chief Constable from 2005 to 2009. He kept records of all contacts, he said, and accepted no hospitality beyond tea, coffee or water.
John Stevens was Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis (head of the Metropolitan Police Service) from 2000 until 2005. From 1991 to 1996, he was Chief Constable of Northumbria Police before being appointed one of HM Inspectors of Constabulary in September 1996. He was then appointed Deputy Commissioner of the Met in 1998 until his promotion to Commissioner in 2000. Told the Inquiry that he had set out to develop a close relationship with the media.
