There has been a lot of talk in recent months at the potential replacement of police authorities by directly-elected Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) and what this will mean for the public.

In light of today’s agreement on the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill, the uncertainty is over and directly-elected PCCs will become a reality in November next year.

This decision has not taken us by surprise as we’ve already put the wheels in motion to ensure the changeover happens smoothly and doesn’t impact on the performance Lancashire residents have become accustomed to.

Although we are very grateful for the clarity provided by today’s decision, which enables us to concentrate on what we need to do to move forward, the Authority fully appreciates that the new governance structure will continue to generate unease among our communities.

I would like to reassure the public that we intend do everything possible to keep them well informed about developments relating to the new structure including information about the election process as and when it becomes available so they have every opportunity of influencing local policing by turning out to vote.

As always, the public can be guaranteed that our aim is always to improve protect them and make them safer.