DEVELOPING: Police and Crime Commissioners to be Abolished in England and Wales

Breaking News: Police and Crime Commissioners to be Scrapped in England and Wales The UK government has announced plans to abolish police and crime commissioners (PCC) in England and Wales, citing a "failed experiment" in improving police accountability. Home Secretary has made the decision, effective from 2028 when the commissioners' terms end. The move is expected to save £100 million over the current parliament's term, with the funds redirected towards frontline policing. This would translate to an additional £20 million per year, enough to hire 320 extra constables. Introduced 12 years ago, the PCC system aimed to increase police accountability by allowing voters to elect local leaders to oversee policing in their areas. However, the Home Office revealed that less than 20% of voters can name their PCC, raising questions about the system's effectiveness. One PCC described the decision as "deeply disappointing", while the shadow home secretary accused the government of "tinkering around the edges" while failing to address crime and policing issues. When the PCC terms end in 2028, their role will be taken over by elected mayors or council leaders. The government claims this change will improve policing in the long run. This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.