PCC role to be reviewed amid 'value for money' concerns
The Home Secretary has announced a review of the work of police and crime commissioners (PCCs) amid concerns the role had failed to give the public value for money.
Priti Patel said the review – the first since the role was created in 2012 – will help to improve "accountability, scrutiny and transparency", as she pledged to give the public a greater say over policing.
PCCs are elected to deliver an effective and efficient police force in their area, and are responsible for budget and performance.
However, critics have accused some PCCs of politicising the role and repeatedly failing to cut crime.
Mrs Patel said: "The British people want to know the police will uphold the law and then be held to account on that basis.
"This review will help to improve accountability, scrutiny and transparency, ensuring Police and Crime Commissioners always put the law-abiding silent majority who voted for them at the centre of their decision-making."
The review, which is due to start ahead of next May's elections, will look at whether the role provides value for money. It will also consider ways to strengthen the accountability of fire and rescue services.
The second stage will examine whether to give PCCs greater powers to fight crime, and the possibility of scrapping the role entirely in some areas with metro mayors.
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street unsuccessfully tried to take over the West Midlands PCC role last year, arguing that the move would save taxpayers' money.
David Jamieson, the Labour PCC for the West Midlands, has welcomed the review, saying it would give Ministers to gain a "strong understanding" of how local policing works.
He added: "The review will also give the Home Office an opportunity to examine their own ways of working, which are not always helpful in assisting PCCs and Chief Constables deal with crime in their area."
Mr Jamieson says he was determined to reduce crime and improve victim support, and that his monthly public meetings demonstrated his commitment to transparency.
"Throughout my time in office I have maintained a strong working professional relationship with the Chief Constable and are effectively able to work through challenges," he said. "However, this is not the case for all PCCs."
Jay Singh-Sohal, the Conservative candidate for PCC, accused Mr Jamieson of "ignoring residents' concerns about rising crime" and claimed he had "not been held to account" for closing police stations and raising council tax policing precept levels.
He added: "We need a fresh approach, as commissioner. I will provide better engagement with the public over policing matters, listening to their concerns and acting upon them."
Mr Jamieson is stepping down ahead of next year's election. Simon Foster is his replacement as Labour candidate.
