Home Secretary addresses Association of Police and Crime Commissioners General Meeting
The Home Secretary, the Rt Hon Theresa May MP, yesterday addressed the first meeting of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) since the May 6 elections, stressing that it is PCCs who will drive reform over the next four years.
This was the first opportunity for the 20 newly elected Commissioners to meet with their re-elected colleagues, as well as other policing bodies. It was also a first general meeting for newly appointed APCC Chief Executive, Nazir Afzal.
The Home Secretary welcomed the increased turnout at the elections – recognising that PCCs have clearly brought accountability to policing and have ensured the Peelian principle of policing for the public is enshrined in the decision making process.
The Home Secretary outlined that over the next four years, PCCs will be at the heart of the reform and transformation agenda so that future policing services are delivered to the public in the most efficient manner, providing the best value for money.
PCCs will also be given greater ownership of the police complaints system and the opportunity to take on governance over fire and rescue services, where a local case is made.
Additionally, the Home Office is working with the Ministry of Justice to develop proposals for PCCs to take on a stronger role in the wider criminal justice system.
Martin Surl, APCC Chair, said, “We are all greatly honoured to have been elected by the public into this essential police governance role.
There is clearly a lot of work still to be done, but I am conscious there is a great deal of enthusiasm and energy in the room. PCCs are clearly up for the challenge.
We are grateful to the Home Secretary for attending today to recognise the important role PCCs play locally, and the benefits of expanding and enhancing their remit.”
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