Paul Stephenson will take over from Sir Iain Blair

Home Secretary Charles Clarke praised the 51-year-old's "excellent record" as he made the announcement on Wednesday.

Sir Ian is taking over the role of commissioner from Sir John Stevens who is retiring next week.

Mr Stephenson said the job "is one of few that could have tempted me away from Lancashire".

Mr Clarke said Lancashire was one of the best performing forces in the country.

He added: "I am confident that, with his impressive experience and ability, he will make an enormous contribution to policing in the capital."

Mr Stephenson will earn a salary of �182,000 in the role.