Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, responds to the announcement of the abolition of Police and Crime Commissioners

Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, said: “I am, of course, disappointed with the Government’s decision to abolish the PCC role. However, my primary concern is that I continue to work with the police to further drive down crime while I remain in my role, and of course for the staff in my office who are affected and face a period of uncertainty.

“Since being in office, I and my staff in the OPCC have achieved a great deal to improve the accountability and scrutiny of policing. We have worked with the force to deliver efficiencies and improvements in service for our local communities and engaged and led local partners across criminal justice to create safer communities and improve support for victims of crime.

“It’s important to state that there is still over two years before the transition to the Government’s new model takes place.  I will continue to work constructively with the Chief Constable during this period, on issues such as knife crime, tackling shoplifting and reducing vehicle crime.”