Local policing - accountability, leadership and ethics

The independent Committee on Standards in Public Life has launched an inquiry into the accountability structures of the police. The current model as a whole, and individual elements of it, have been the subject of criticism. Much of this relates to standards issues, yet the relationship between standards and governance structures has been relatively underexplored. We intend to look at the structures in place for ensuring ethical standards in the conduct and performance of Police and Crime Panels, Police and Crime Commissioners, and Chief Constables. We will then go on to consider how effective those structures are, what works well and, if there are shortcomings, identify what we would expect to see – in any model for police accountability. We will be seeking the necessary assurance that ethical standards in public life are, and are capable of being, upheld.

The Committee would like to hear your views to some or all of the questions in the attached Issues and Questions paper.