In a city of eight million people where one in four are from an ethnic minority - the Metropolitan Police has found itself with an all-white leadership.

The retirement of Commander Shabir Hussain and expulsion of the corrupt cop Ali Dizaei has left Scotland Yard in an uncomfortable situation.

Bevan Powell, acting chair of the Met section of the Black Police Association, said it was "not a sustainable position" to have no top ranking minority ethnic officers. Adding:

"We are determined to work with the commissioner and management board to address these issues, it is essential to retain the trust and confidence of Londoners. It is essential they see an organisation that reflects the diversity of the capital."

The last time an all-white Met policed London was ten years ago, when the Macpherson report labeled the force "institutionally racist." Whilst the number of black and Asian officers has increased, many have spoken of a 'glass ceiling' when seeking promotion up the ranks - with several senior policemen suing the Met.

A report on the tenth anniversary of Macpherson, said progress was needed:

"...notably in relation to the career experiences of black and minority ethnic officers and the disproportionate use of stop and search procedures against black groups. It is difficult, in light of these continued challenges, to argue that the charge of institutional racism no longer applies."

"Golden Circle"

Commander Hussain lost a lawsuit against the Met two years ago claiming he failed to get promotion because he was not part of a "golden circle" of white officers. Assistant commissioner Tarique Ghaffur, London's most senior ethnic minority officer publicly called then commissioner Sir Ian Blair a racist after what felt "shut out" of operations.

Scotland Yard is still awaiting a City Hall inquiry into the poisonous race row that tarnished the service towards the end of Sir Ian Blair stewardship rein. The inquiry examines how it handles race and faith issues - one of the panelists, Bob Purkiss quit claiming it had lost credibility,

Talking to the Guardian he called the all-white Met a serious failure:

"They had a diversity directorate, they had development processes for ethnic minority officers and it shows they were not serious about pushing people forward," he said.

It's not because of the ability of (minority ethnic) people or the lack of time in the service. They've just not been given the same opportunity to develop their ability and given the same opportunity as white officers."

"Does not bode well" - Met defence

Cindy Butts, of the force's watchdog, the Metropolitan Police Authority all-white "does not bode well."

Scotland Yard said in a statement:

"The Met aims to best reflect the make up of Londoners, whilst making sure we appoint the very best people for the jobs. This includes striking the right balance with gender too.

We have some talented black and minority ethnic officers at the rank of superintendent and chief superintendent; this includes 10% of all borough commanders. Talented officers will be supported and developed through the promotion process to ensure we have the best team managing the Met."