Misleading information in the press around the role of Police Crime Commissioners (PCCS), and specifically the recruitment process for Chief Constables, has prompted me to set the record straight. 

PCCs were introduced in England and Wales in 2012, to replace now-abolished Police Authorities to ensure police forces run effectively. We act as the public voice for policing and victims which is at the heart of everything we do. 

We are directly elected politicians, and I have had the honour of being the representative for Devon, Cornwall and the Isle of Scilly since 2016. Although we are not involved in day-to-day operational policing as Chief Constables are operationally independent.  

Our crucial functions – guided by our skills and knowledge – include: 

• determining local policing priorities 

• scrutinising police performance 

• determining appeals against police complaints 

• appointing volunteers and legal advisers to advise on misconduct panels 

• setting budgets  

• proposing the council tax precept for policing 

• providing services for victims of crime 
• appointing or dismissing a Chief Constable 

The latter is done in line with police regulations and other legislative requirements. We must observe the principles of merit, fairness and openness to ensure candidates are assessed in a consistent way, and that there is a transparent and justifiable reason why a person is right for the role. 

The last time I carried out a recruitment process for a substantive Chief Constable, we had five candidates apply – not just one as stated in the press for the roles for both the deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and Chief Constable of Merseyside Police. 

PCCs, in consultation with HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Service (HMICFRS), develop a job description and assessment criteria which aligns with clear expectations within the College of Policing Competency and Values Framework (CVF). Its three core values are courage, respect and empathy, and public service, which are derived from the Code of Ethics, and is applicable to everyone in policing. 

PCCs are also required to convene a diverse appointment panel – including at least one independent member and senior policing advisor – who will collectively challenge and test that the candidate meets the necessary requirements to perform the role. 

Those involved in meeting the candidates and making recommendations to explore during the final interview process when I was appointing included HMICFRS, the College of Policing, the Police Federation, police staff associations, elected council leaders and community and faith leaders. 

Notification of the proposed appointment then requires the approval of the Police and Crime Panel – a scrutiny body which examines the actions and decisions of PCCs – and is the process I use to carry out recruitment. The panel is provided with an independent report detailing the recruitment process.  

It is a thorough and vigorous recruitment process – and certainly not one where ‘no checks and balances’ take place, as has been recently incorrectly reported. 

Throughout my rewarding yet challenging years in office, I have spoken out when mistakes or issues within the force have arisen, fought for improvements, and applauded the incredible work carried out by so many who work for Devon & Cornwall Police. 

I will continue to speak out when matters need to be addressed, and that includes ensuring the role of elected PCCs are correctly understood by the public and being a critical friend by scrutinising policing. 

PCCs help improve police forces across England and Wales, so it is therefore disappointing for the roles to be tarnished with incorrect statements around the quality of senior officers when recruiting for top positions.  

It is much-needed recent reforms that will address recruitment issues – along with the continued support of PCCs. I endeavour to be open and transparent about all policing matters, appointments and disciplinary matters. 

My overall focus remains getting the best for the public from the police, supporting others to keep communities safe across the peninsula, and commissioning a wide range of services to support victims of crime and reduce reoffending.