NPCC responds to Committee on Standards in Public Life report

In the report, the Committee calls for greater energy and consistency to be applied to promoting high ethical standards and for a more robust set of checks and balances in the accountability structures of local policing, particularly in relation to Police and Crime Commissaioners.

National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) Lead on Ethics and Integrity, Chief Constable Jacqui Cheer, said:

"Public trust and confidence lie at the heart of British policing. We welcome the research undertaken by the Committee on Standards in Public Life and the opportunity to give evidence as part of this inquiry.

“The vast majority of police officers, at all ranks, act with honesty and integrity. As the report highlights, people’s experience of policing is generally positive and victims of crime feel that they will be treated fairly. We would want to build on the positive findings of the public survey to ensure that we are as open and transparent as possible, demonstrating integrity in all areas of our work.

“Chief constables want to be held to account in a robust and transparent way. How this is done is a matter for Parliament, however, greater clarity about roles – as well as a more open and independent selection process – have the potential to bring real benefits.

“The NPCC will study the findings in today’s report carefully. Alongside partners such as the College of Policing, we will continue to promote and explore new ways of improving accountability, professionalism and high standards of ethical behaviour throughout the service.”

The full Committee on Standards in Public Life report can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tone-from-the-top-leadership-ethics-and-accountability-in-policing