Political comment: Liberal Democrat Mayoral candidate welcomes end of police commissioners
Martin Tod, the Liberal Democrat candidate for Mayor of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, has welcomed the Government’s decision to abolish the post of Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), calling it “a long-overdue victory for common sense.”
Under the new plans, policing powers will be brought under the leadership of directly elected Mayors. The government this week described the PCC system as a “failed experiment.” The Liberal Democrats have repeatedly called for PCCs to be replaced by local Police Boards, made up of councillors and community representatives — ensuring proper scrutiny and saving millions of pounds that can instead fund frontline officers and neighbourhood policing. Since 2019 PCC offices have cost more than £100 million.
“This is the right decision for Hampshire. Police and Crime Commissioners have failed to deliver and have wasted huge amounts on glossy leaflets, PR and spin. That’s why the Liberal Democrats have consistently argued for a better, more local system.” said Martin, candidate for Mayor and Leader of Winchester Council.
“It’s time to stop wasting money on bureaucracy and PR and put it where it matters most — on the streets, in our communities, keeping people safe,” added Martin. “If elected as Mayor, I will work hand-in-hand with local police, councils, and residents to tackle the issues that matter: anti-social behaviour, rural crime, and the visible presence of officers in our neighbourhoods.”
The Liberal Democrat candidate also highlighted that trust in policing will only be rebuilt through transparency and real community involvement. “This change is a chance to start again — to bring policing closer to the people it serves and make our communities safer, fairer, and better connected,” he said.