Lincolnshire’s PCC and scrutiny panel sign policing commitment document

Lincolnshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner and Police and Crime Panel Chairman have signed a document detailing the parameters of their roles.

The 12-page memorandum of understanding sets out shared objectives to tackle crime in the county, as well as setting priorities for scrutiny in the force.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Alan Hardwick, and Chairman of the Police and Crime Panel (PCP), Norman Norris, both made the commitment and signed the document.

Lincolnshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Alan Hardwick, and Chairman of the Police and Crime Panel (PCP), Norman Norris, have signed a document setting out the parameters in which they will work. Photo:ELDC

The document sets in place mechanisms for exchanging information so that issues of mutual concern and interest are highlighted at an early stage and dealt with in co-operation.

It is hoped the partnership will create safer communities throughout Lincolnshire and increase public confidence in the Police Force.

The role of the PCC includes setting policing priorities and holding the Chief Constable to account for the effectiveness and efficiency of the Police Force.

In turn the role of the PCP is to support but challenge the PCC, including publicly scrutinising the actions and decisions made.

Last year, the PCC was criticised for his decision to suspend Chief Constable Neil Rhodes. The PCP was also criticised for failing to meet and challenge the decision.

Whilst the memorandum of understanding sets out ways in which the PCC and PCP can work alongside each other towards common goals, the office of the PCC and the PCP remain independent bodies with autonomy over their working programmes, methods of working and any conclusions they may reach.

Mr Norris said: “This memorandum of understanding is a very important document in setting out clearly and concisely how the PCP and the PCC will work alongside each other towards mutual objectives while also enabling the PCP to remain impartial and carry out its important role in scrutinising the work of the PCC.”

Mr Hardwick added: “The Memorandum of Understanding simply sets out in writing how I and the Police and Crime Panel have always carried out our roles. We share an enduring commitment to continue do so on behalf of the people of Lincolnshire.”