Widow of murdered policeman Keith Palmer slams Met for revealing she is suing the force over his death

The widow of murdered Bexley policeman Keith Palmer has said she is disappointed with the Metropolitan Police for confirming she is suing it over security failings surrounding his death.

The father-of-one and Charlton fan was stabbed to death as he guarded an entrance to the Palace of Westminster in March 2017.

Michelle Palmer’s legal action claims he might have survived had armed officers been stationed closer to the entrance. She is seeking damages for the loss of life and its effects on her and her young daughter.

It follows claims during PC Palmer’s inquest that armed officers were too far away, patrolling other areas of the Palace of Westminster’s grounds, and there was confusion about their orders.

An official report later by the then chief coroner said the Carriage Gates, where the unarmed Palmer was stationed, were a known vulnerability.

Michelle Palmer said last week she had wanted the legal action kept confidential and she was annoyed the Met had publicly confirmed receipt of a legal letter, though it did not confirm it was from her solicitors, Slater and Gordon.

Ms Palmer, who confirmed she has bought a claim against the Met in relation to the death of her husband, said: “It was always of paramount importance that this matter remained private, out of respect for me, my daughter and Keith.

“I am disappointed the Met have made it public that a claim is being brought. Once more I feel disappointed and let down. This is not the respectful actions I, or Keith, would have expected from an organisation he dedicated his life to.

“It continues to feel as if our wishes are of little importance.”

Patrick Maguire, the lawyer at Slater and Gordon who is representing Ms Palmer, said: “It has always been our position this matter proceed in confidence.

“It is with regret that the Met have decided to publicly state a claim is being intimated.”

A national memorial was publicly unveiled in February last year, outside the Palace of Westminster, as a permanent tribute to PC Palmer.