>>That is what I always understood. What I never had clear is what's the difference with or role of Scotland Yard.
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>New Scotland Yard, often referred to simply as Scotland Yard or The Yard, is the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police Service, responsible for policing Greater London (although not the City of London itself).

New Scotland Yard is the new building that the Met moved into (back in the 60s, I think). Before that, the HQ was an imposing red brick edifice actually in Scotland Yard. If you see any old B&W movies from the time, with "Chief Inspector Whoever of the Yard" then you'll likely get glimpses of its edifice.

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>http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scotland_yard
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>>re: Spooks. Last year I rented (Netflix) the first season and liked it. When they killed the main character (I forget his name) the thing sadly went to pot and I stopped watching it.

It's strange - the Metropolitan Police (or the Met) control a ring of London, outside the City. The City of London Police, who wear a different uniform, different style helmet, and red & white checks on their caps, control the centre.