Police and crime commissioners to be scrapped

The government has announced that police and commissioners (PCCs) will be scrapped to save money to fund frontline officers.

It is anticipated that this could save the taxpayer at least £100 million.

The government has said it is doing this to cut the cost of unnecessary bureaucracy, with the money spend on restoring neighbourhood policing.

At least £20 million will be reinvested each year as a result of new efficiencies in police government. This could cover the cost of 320 constables.

PCCs have been around since 2012, but turnout for their election and public knowledge around who they are is low. Two in five people are unaware they exist.

Their duties will now be absorbed by regional mayors where possible, so measures to cut crime will be considered as part of wider public services such as education and healthcare.

In areas without mayors, the role will be taken on by elected council leaders.

The transition to the new model will happen at the end of the next electoral cycle in 2028. 

Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, said: “The introduction of police and crime commissioners by the last government was a failed experiment.  

“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.”