Warwickshire Police Commissioner reports good progress

Ron Ball, who was elected to the post on November 22, held his first public meeting last week, at which he questioned Warwickshire Police Chief Constable Andy Parker on the force’s priorities, including its performance and alliance with West Mercia Police.

Mr Ball plans to hold public meetings every other month so that he can update people on priorities for the force and give them the chance to ask questions about policing in the county.

Such questions should be submitted to the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner in writing before the meeting.

Mr Ball said: “I am extremely keen to ensure I represent the voice of all members of Warwickshire in holding the Chief Constable of Warwickshire Police to account.

“I therefore want to hold regular meetings that will be at locations across the county on a regular basis. I will also be holding regular surgeries at which I would invite all members of the public to come along to and speak to me about police and crime matters.”

He added: “One of my key manifesto commitments was to reduce bureaucracy within the force and a study is now underway to look at all bureaucracy within Warwickshire and West Mercia Police with the aim to see this reduced.

“I also wanted to see the number of Safer Neighbourhood teams maintained and I am extremely pleased to be able to report that as part of the changes planned under the alliance blueprint the number of teams within Warwickshire will remain the same.

“I am determined to stick to my promises and deliver the best possible protection for communities.”

To contact Mr Ball, write to 3 Northgate Street, Warwick, CV34 4SP, call 412322 or email at [email protected]