PCC says scrapping role will 'politicise' policing

Wiltshire PCC Philip Wilkinson described the move as "doomed to failure"

A police and crime commissioner (PCC) claims the government's decision to scrap the role is an attempt to "politicise" policing.

Philip Wilkinson, who was elected PCC for Wiltshire in 2021, described the move as "thoughtless, heartless and doomed to failure".

He said: "Take away all the functions [of PCCs], it's going to mean a less effective, less efficient and more politicised police force."

Under the changes, when the commissioners' terms end in 2028 the role will move to an elected mayor or to council leaders. The Home Office has been approached for comment.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the PCC system, which was instated 12 years ago, as a "failed experiment".

There are currently 37 elected commissioners whose main responsibilities include setting an annual budget, appointing chief constables and producing a policing plan.

The government added that scrapping the position would free up an extra £20m to fund front-line policing.

Gloucestershire PCC Chris Nelson said the government has not "thought this through"

Policing minister Sarah Jones told the House of Commons on Thursday that the model had "failed to live up to expectations" and "not delivered what it was set up to achieve".

"Public understanding [of PCCs' role] remains low despite efforts to raise their profiles," she added.

But Mr Wilkinson said the PCC plays a key role in co-ordinating between police and partner agencies on issues such as violence against women and girls, shop lifting and anti-social behaviour.

"I am also responsible to all the residents in Wiltshire for holding Wiltshire Police Force to account," he said.

Conservative Chris Nelson, who was elected Gloucestershire's PCC in 2021, said the decision would remove the "elected voice of the public".

"[The government] has clearly not thought this through - the comment that no one knows who the PCC is, I can say the same thing about MPs and councillors," he said.

"I've done my level best to hold officers to account and that policing operates at the very highest level," he added.

Avon and Somerset PCC Clare Moody said the current system would remain in place until 2028

Clare Moody, who was elected PCC for Avon and Somerset in 2024, emphasised the current system would remain in place until 2028.

"I want to reassure partners, community groups and residents that current commissioning, funding and scrutiny work will continue," she said.

"The relationships and partnerships built across our communities remain central and will be maintained throughout any transition."