The Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey David Munro has today welcomed the government’s announcement of a nationwide review of the PCC model.
The Commissioner said that improving accountability, scrutiny and public awareness of the role will help ensure residents are getting a good service from their PCC.
A ministerial statement released today by Home Secretary Priti Patel revealed that the review would be carried out in two stages with the first starting this summer.
It will initially consider measures including raising the profile of PCCs, giving the public better access to performance information, sharing best practice and reviewing the relationship between Commissioners and Chief Constables.
The second stage will take place following the PCC elections in May 2021 and will focus on longer-term reform.
Further details on the review announcement can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/priti-patel-to-give-public-greater-say-over-policing-through-pcc-review
PCC David Munro said: “It is vital we continue to look at ways to increase public awareness and improve the function of the PCC role so I welcome the today’s announcement of a review of the current model.
“Hopefully this will provide an opportunity to reflect on the learning since the role was created and to help shape its future moving forward.
“I believe PCC’s have a crucial role to play in providing the public with a say on how their local policing service is delivered and we must look at harnessing this further.
“PCC’s have also played a key part in ensuring victims and the most vulnerable are at the heart of policing and have the access they need to dedicated help and support services. We must continue the progress made in this area.
“I am committed to keeping our communities in Surrey safe and welcome the chance to evolve and strengthen the role of the PCC to maintain that commitment to the public.
“However, I would like to see this review carried out as a matter of urgency well ahead of next year’s PCC elections so that any learning can be implemented and the public can feel informed before voting.”