So far so good for police plans (From Northwich Guardian)

So far so good for police plans

4:40pm Thursday 2nd August 2012 in News

POLICE preparations for a new way of working in Cheshire have received a vote of confidence from Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary.

Police and crime commissioners will be elected on November 15 to replace police authorities They will take over the role of holding Chief Constables to account, deciding local policing objectives, monitoring performance and setting police budgets and the local police council tax.

Margaret Ollerenshaw, Cheshire Police Authority Chairman, said: “From the outset, we have been determined to ensure that the transition will be seamless and we are working hard to ensure that happens.

“We are looking at every detail of what the change will mean to the constabulary, partners, staff and the public of Cheshire.

“We need to be sure that all issues are thought through.

“We are determined that the commissioner will have everything in place to maintain the high standard of policing which people in Cheshire are used to and which they have every right to expect.

“It is good to know that Her Majesty′s Inspectorate of Constabulary feels we are getting it right.”

Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary praised Cheshire Police Authority’s transition plan, its emphasis on involving local authorities and its plans to brief candidates to ensure a consistent and unbiased approach.