A statement from Claire Waxman, Victims Commissioner for London:
I welcome HMIC's first report on stalking and harassment, crimes which are all too often under-reported and misunderstood, leaving victims vulnerable.
Stalking is a pattern of behavior and must be properly investigated in this way, rather than the current focus on isolated incidents which minimises the huge impact on the victim.
This report shows that much more needs to be done to ensure victims of stalking and harassment are properly protected and supported. Many of the recommendations are already being considered in our work tackling violence against women and girls, and I will continue to work with the Met, CPS and stakeholders to help ensure they are implemented and improve the support for victims across the capital.
HMIC report: Living in fear - the police and CPS response to harassment and stalking