Officials vow to ensure ‘smooth transition’ of Lincolnshire policing powers
Officials have promised to ensure there is a ‘smooth transition’ of power when the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) role is scrapped.
In November last year, the government announced that PCCs are set to be abolished from 2028, with their responsibilities being passed on to directly-elected mayors, or council leaders where there is no regional mayor.
The PCC in Lincolnshire is the political figurehead for the force and powers include setting a police budget, making an action plan and appointing chief constables.
In Lincolnshire, these powers would be transfered from PCC Marc Jones (Independent) to the mayor of Greater Lincolnshire Dame Andrea Jenkyns (Reform UK).
Mr Jones told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “The government’s white paper on policing does provide the ability for the mayor of Greater Lincolnshire to take on the policing governance role in Lincolnshire but not in Humberside – unless police boundaries change.
“I will work to ensure that, whatever model comes next, there is a smooth transition to ensure the effective running of victim services in the county as well as all of the other policing and governance functions.
“This is a role that has significant reach into our communities and it is important that what follows continues to deliver effective services.”
Ms Jenkyns has vowed to take a ‘zero-tolerance approach’, ensuring that no crime goes unpunished, if she gets these additional powers.
She added: “I have been meeting with our Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner Marc Jones to ensure we are fully prepared for the strategic transition of policing responsibilities to the mayor’s office in 2028.
“It is vital that we have a seamless plan in place well ahead of time so that we are ready to lead from day one.
“I am looking forward to taking on these new powers and delivering a zero-tolerance approach to crime across our region.
“My goal is to ensure that no crime is considered too small to go unpunished and that every resident feels protected.
“We are building a clear, transparent and directly accountable framework to provide the visible policing our communities deserve and to make Greater Lincolnshire a safer place for everyone.”
The government said the proposal will remove ‘unnecessary bureaucracy’ and will save £100 million over this parliament’s term.