Politicians split over police commissioner role (From Oxford Mail)

Politicians split over police commissioner role

6:50am Wednesday 6th March 2013 in News

OXFORDSHIRE MPs have responded along party lines when asked if police and crime commissioners are value for money.

Friday was Anthony Stansfeld’s 100th day in the role at Thames Valley Police.

Conservative MPs backed them, but Labour MP Andrew Smith said money would be better spent on frontline policing.

Prime Minister and Witney MP David Cameron said: “The election of police and crime commissioners is a part of reforms and they are working – crime is falling and visible policing is up.”

Wantage MP Ed Vaizey said: “Police and crime commissioners will be a very valuable resource for ensuring that my constituents’ concerns are communicated effectively.”

Banbury MP Sir Tony Baldry said Mr Stansfeld had been busy getting around Thames Valley and meeting with “many people”.

“He is clearly getting on with the job he was elected to do.”