England and Wales to Scrap Police Crime Commissioners

The Home Office said that less than 20% of voters can name their PCC, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood describing the system as a "failed experiment".

There are currently 37 elected commissioners under the system, introduced 12 years ago by former Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron.

The role will move to either an elected mayor or council leaders at the end of the commissioners' terms in 2028.

The Home Office said the savings would enable them to invest an additional £20 million annually in frontline policing, enough for 320 constables.

While its stated aim was to make security forces more accountable to the areas they serve, the system has long been criticized for its cost and the effectiveness of commissioners.

Police Minister Sarah Jones told the Commons on Thursday that the model had "failed to meet expectations" and "did not achieve the purpose for which it was established."

She added that "public understanding of the role of PCCs remains low, despite efforts to enhance their reputation."

Jones said that PCCs had attempted to provide strong oversight and tackle crime, but the model had "weakened the accountability of local police and adversely affected the recruitment of chief constables."

The PCC's main responsibilities include setting the annual budget, appointing chief constables, preparing a five-year policing plan, and assessing its force's performance against the plan.

The Home Office stated that under these changes, crime reduction measures will be "considered as part of broader public services," including education and healthcare.

It also stated that the government will ensure that the support services currently provided by PCCs to victims and witnesses continue.

Mahmood said that the new reforms will make police accountable to their local mayors or councils.

Reacting to the announcement in the Commons, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said it "reflects a sham by a government that has failed to tackle crime and policing."

He cited a rise in crimes, including shoplifting, as well as warnings that police forces could cut frontline staff due to funding shortages.

Emily Spurrell, PCC for Merseyside and chair of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, said the PCC was "extremely disappointed by this decision and the lack of communication with us".

She argued that this role had "improved scrutiny and transparency, ensuring the police focus on the issues that matter most to local communities".

"Abolishing PCCs now, without any consultation, as policing faces a crisis of public trust and confidence... risks creating a dangerous accountability vacuum," she said.

But Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, chairman of the National Police Chiefs' Council, said the organization could see "the potential for stronger and more integrated local leadership on community safety" where the new system is "well implemented."

The Police Federation of England and Wales also welcomed the announcement.

Chairwoman Tiff Lynch said the "tens of millions of pounds" PCCs cost should instead be used to fund the police service "with experienced police officers who can afford to keep doing the job".