The APA has welcomed tonight's decisive vote (11.05.11) by Peers on a Liberal Democrat amendment to delete directly elected Police and Crime Commissioners from the Government's Police Reform and Social Responsibility bill. APA Chairman Cllr Rob Garnham commented:

"Tonight’s significant vote reflects the oft stated concerns of the APA and the public – the dangers of one person having unchecked power, the potential politicization of policing and the loss of impartial governance that has delivered higher public confidence and lower crime instead of partiality and conflict.

Having listened to the debate, we recognise the need for timely, evidence based reform of policing governance. We will continue to work with the government, peers, partners and the public to build on the strengths of the present system and to deepen pubic trust and confidence in policing."

APA note for Peers considering the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill in committee , 11.05.11

 Notes

The House of Lords begins its clause by clause consideration  of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill this afternoon, 11.05.11 and following four hours of debate Peers backed by 188 votes to 176 a Liberal Democrat bid to scrap plans for directly elected police and crime commissioners.