PC Palmer was one of five people killed by terrorist Khalid Masood, 52, in Westminster in March 2017. The Metropolitan Police confirmed publicly on Monday that it was facing legal action, prompting fury from the 48-year-old’s widow. Speaking after the inquest in October 2018, Michelle Palmer said her husband had been left “alone, unarmed, guarding an open gate” .

Masood ploughed into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge before running through Carriage Gates and attacking PC Palmer with two 12in knives.

The Islamist terrorist was eventually shot dead by a plainclothes close protection officer.

Mrs Palmer said today: “It was always of paramount importance that this matter remained private, out of respect for me, my daughter and Keith.

“I am disappointed that the Met has made it public that a claim is being brought. Once more I feel disappointed and let down.

“This is not the respectful actions I, nor Keith, would have expected from an organisation that he dedicated his life to. It continues to feel as if our wishes are of little importance.”

Patrick Maguire, lawyer at Slater and Gordon who is representing Mrs Palmer, said: “It has always been our position this matter proceed in confidence. It is with regret that the Metropolitan Police has decided to publicly state that a claim is being intimated.”

Chief coroner Mark Lucraft said PC Palmer could still be alive if firearms officers had been closer.

The nearest armed officers were 80 yards away, an inquest heard.

Mr Lucraft said following a four-week inquest at the Old Bailey: “Due to shortcomings in the security system at New Palace Yard, including the supervision of those engaged in such duties, the armed officers were not aware of a requirement to remain in close proximity to the gates.

“Had they been stationed there, it is possible that they may have been able to prevent Pc Palmer suffering fatal injuries.”

After the inquest, PC Palmer’s family said senior Met officers had “closed ranks”.

His widow said in a statement: “How could Keith have been left alone, unarmed, guarding an open gate at one of the most iconic buildings in the world and one of the country’s top terrorist targets?

“He was left at a vulnerable location with no protection, to die.

“The fact there were no firearms officers there for nearly an hour is hard to believe.

“I truly believe that if they had been there he would still be here today and Amy wouldn’t have lost her daddy.”

Speaking after the inquest, Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu apologised on behalf of the Met and said the lost chance to save a “brave and courageous officer” was unacceptable.

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