Policing TV looks at the future of police, fire and crime panels in England and Wales, as Paul Downing speaks with John Gili-Ross, Chair of the National Association of Police, Fire and Crime Panels and Chair of the Essex PFCP. They unpack the key themes from the November AGM, including concerns over mayoral combined authorities and the erosion of Police and Crime Commissioners’ influence.
John also reflects on the policing minister’s announcement that panels will end in 2029, the repeated delays to the policing reform white paper, and what all this uncertainty means for panels, OPCC staff and local scrutiny right now.
Takeaways
- AGM drew strong attendance, with almost 70 delegates from 40 panels.
- New mayoral combined authorities risk sidelining PCCs as non-voting members.
- Delays to mayoral changes and election dates create uncertainty and frustration.
- The long-awaited policing reform white paper keeps slipping, with little clarity.
- Government announcements feel “unprepared” and poorly communicated to panels.
- Panels are still expected to carry on “business as usual” until at least 2028.
- Biggest short-term impact may fall on OPCC staff facing an unclear future.
- Despite 2029 changes, panels still have a vital scrutiny role for local residents
Chapters
00:00 Overview of the National Association AGM
02:48 Political Dynamics and Influence of PCCs
05:52 Future of Policing and Structural Changes
Subscribe for more leadership conversations from inside and beyond policing
We have launched a YouTube channel where you can also view our videos – just click here and please like and subscribe PTV Youtube
PolicingTV content is being brought to you in partnership with Kodex & World Policing Advisory
Kodex revolutionises the way organisations manage sensitive data requests from law enforcement and government agencies, transforming a traditionally complex process into a secure, streamlined workflow that ensures compliance, enhances security, and reduces operational costs.
Trusted by over 90,000 government agents and industry leaders like Binance, Airbnb, Match Group, and LinkedIn, Kodex sets the industry standard for secure data exchange — powered by a global intelligence network and advanced threat detection capabilities.
To learn more about Kodex, click here – If you are part of a government agency and need to create an account, click here
World Policing Advisory is a global consultancy specialising in the future of policing and public safety. We offer global policing expertise, delivered locally through a model focused on consulting with conscience.
Our teams have direct experience of strategic and tactical policing and private sector leadership, blended with the globe’s best subject matter expertise to create high impact value for money services with in-year benefits.
For more information contact our MD, Gary Stuart ([email protected])