Bedfordshire’s police and crime commissioner (PCC) has rejected the idea that he is now a “dead duck” following the government’s decision to abolish PCCs by 2028.
PCC John Tizard said he will use the remainder of his term to deliver his programme and to support a smooth changeover.
He added: “I’ve got another two and a half years [left] and I’ve got a very full programme to implement.
“I continue to have my authority, my powers, and my responsibilities. My intent is to fulfil those over the two and a half years.
“My personal contract was until May 2028. I may have chosen to stand or not to stand for re-election. Even if I had to chosen to stand I may or may not be elected.
“So I’ve always assumed that I had a four-year period, and that’s what I’m going to work through. Most of what goes on in this office will have to continue.”
Read: Bedfordshire PCC role to be scrapped in national shake-up of policing
This includes oversight of police complaints, scrutiny of stop and search, and use of force, as well as monitoring how Bedfordshire Police uses new technology, such as AI and live facial recognition.
“I have a responsibility to the people of Bedfordshire to fulfil my role and ensure whatever arrangements are going to supersede the police and crime commissioner that we have a smooth transition to these arrangements,” he said.
By John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
