Fears on police commissioners plan ‘elitist’

Policing Minister Nick Herbert took on the critics who claim the policy will lead to extremists being put in charge of the police.

He will publish a protocol this week to set out the different responsibilities of Chief Constables, Police and Crime Commissioners, new local Police and Crime Panels which will scrutinise commissioners, and the Home Secretary.

In a speech yesterday Mr Herbert said the real objection is “... an elitist fear that elected Commissioners might be so brash as to reflect public concern and pledge to get tough on crime. It’s strange that so many democrats are so wary of democracy, but I believe that we can and should trust the people”.