North Yorkshire's new chief constable has launched a blazing attack on his own police force and its press critics.

The blistering double-barrelled assault was delivered to today's meeting of the North Yorkshire Police Authority, following the publication of a highly critical Government report.

Pledging to lead the force out of its troubles, David Kenworthy told a packed public meeting at Richmond Town Hall: "We have got to stop this constant sniping, we have got to let old wounds heal."

Last week's report by Her Majesty's Government Inspector severely criticised North Yorkshire Police's management structure and training programmes.

The inspector's comments focused on the high profile sexual harassment case which made the North Yorkshire force the focus of national media attention under Mr Kenworthy's predecessor as chief constable, David Burke.

Now Mr Kenworthy has promised urgent action to address the problems.

Reporting on his first months in office he said he had been shocked by the force's lack of commitment to training, equal opportunities, its special constables, and the future.

"I think the last two years have been debilitating in the way this force sees itself. There is a need for clear leadership, and that's what I'm here to provide."

In an attempt to bring an end to repeated criticisms over the sexual harassment scandal, he insisted the case was now closed.

"I will not publish the report on the Harrogate case. I will not because the law will not allow me.

"No one is happy with the complaints procedure. The Government has said it will change but at the moment we are stuck with the system we have got.

"Industrial tribunals will go on, they are a part of late 20th century life. They are a valuable defence or shield for employees. We will have them again I have no doubt.

"This force is a good force, it is achieving its results and it will go on achieving over the next few years.

"Changes are needed but it is going to take time, there are no quick fixes in this world and particularly in this police force."

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