Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner says the axing of his role is ‘completely unacceptable’ – claiming his office were not consulted.
Philip Wilkinson believes he will be replaced by a local authority committee, but warns that democratic accountability in police may be lost.
The retired British Army officer took up the role in 2021 as a Conservative, and was re-elected in 2024.
The cost of the post and associated office has been widely criticised. However, others believe it increased accountability and transparency in forces.
In a statement, Philip Wilkinson said: “Today’s announcement that PCCs will be abolished from May 2028 is deeply disappointing and completely unacceptable.
“There has been zero consultation and no clarity on how the vital functions my office delivers will be maintained.
“In Wiltshire, I am told I will be replaced by a committee of local authority leaders – but no explanation of how they will take on the complex responsibilities we currently manage.
“For more than a decade, PCCs have brought democratic accountability to policing, secured millions in extra funding for victim services and community safety, and driven improvements in transparency.
“Removing PCCs now – at a time when public trust in policing is at an all-time low – risks creating an accountability vacuum and taking policing backwards.”
He continued: “Leaving forces to mark their own homework on standards, performance and finances, is forcing policing back into a time where many will not want to be taken – and one that PCCs have worked hard to move forwards from.
“Nearly all the government’s flagship priorities – supporting victims, tackling violence against women and girls, preventing crime in local communities – were pioneered by PCCs and funded through our offices. Shifting these responsibilities to already cash-strapped councils will harm communities and victims.
“Wiltshire deserves clear, visible leadership and strong local accountability. The public deserve nothing less.”
