THE NEW Police and Crime Commissioner has outlined six priorities as he begins to shape his plan for policing in Warwickshire.
Philip Seccombe – who succeeded Ron Ball in the role – says one of his main aims will be to listen to the views of communities across the county not only on crime but also the prevention of crime.
The Conservative PCC, who is also a ward member for Ettington on Stratford District Council, has highlighted six priorities, which will form the backbone of his new police and crime plan.
These include ensuring police have the right equipment to do their job, protecting communities by building partnerships with other organisations, increasing police numbers, supporting victims of crime and reducing back office bureaucracy and red tape.
He has also emphasised his desire to see more police officers, PCSOs and Special Constables within the force.
He said: “I have signed the declaration of independence which emphasises I am here to serve the people, not a political party or any one section of the electorate over another.
“Although I am a Conservative and will always be so, I will provide a robust voice for Warwickshire and will speak up first and foremost for what is in the best of interests for the whole county, regardless of political affiliations.”
Mr Seccombe emphasised his continuing support for the alliance with West Mercia Police but says he does not want to see a full merger.
He added: “The alliance has undoubtedly enabled Warwickshire Police to make significant savings, which it would have been unlikely to have been able to make had it continued to stand on its own.
“However, it is vitally important the people of Warwickshire continue to have a strong voice to represent their interests within the alliance and that, in my view, is best achieved through the retention of separate Chief Constables and PCCs.
“I do not believe a full merger would be in the best interests of Warwickshire – the current arrangements serve the county very well.”
Mr Seccombe said he was delighted to have been chosen by voters and was looking forward to engaging with the force and community over the coming months.
