The controversial system of police and crime commissioners is to be abolished by the government, the Guardian has learned.
Under the system, introduced under the Conservatives in 2012, all 43 police forces covering local areas across England and Wales had to answer to an elected official. It was supposed to boost the accountability and performances of police forces.
But critics, especially police chiefs, said the elected officials too often tried to interfere and were ineffective.
The home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, had been considering scrapping PCCs for some time, as had her predecessor, Yvette Cooper.
On Monday Mahmood said that PCCs had failed. “The introduction of police and crime commissioners by the last government was a failed experiment,” she said.
“I will introduce new reforms so police are accountable to their local mayoralties or local councils. The savings will fund more neighbourhood police on the beat across the country, fighting crime and protecting our communities.
“I would like to recognise the efforts of all current and former Police and Crime Commissioners, and thank them. These individuals served their communities and will continue to do so until they have completed their current terms.”
The next elections for PCCs were scheduled for May 2028, and will be cancelled. It comes as local government is also being changed.
According to a confidential briefing email, in those areas areas getting elected mayors, they will take over the functions of PCCs.
Details are expected to be announced imminently about what the replacement for PCCs will be, and how much money ministers hope to save.
More details soon …
