Britain’s top policeman has faced accusations that the Madeleine McCann case was getting “unfair” and “special” attention at Scotland Yard.

Sir Paul Stephenson denied claims that his decision to agree to review the investigation into the girl’s disappearance could come at the cost of other inquiries.

The commissioner, appearing before members of the Metropolitan Police Authority, said additional funds from the Home Office to support examinations could help save jobs in the force’s homicide division.

Sir Paul was confronted over the review by London Assembly member Jenny Jones.

Speaking at City Hall, she said she sympathised with the McCann family but asked him: “Why is this a special case?” Sir Paul replied: “I do not take your point.”