MP questions £2m by-election for Norfolk Police and Crime Commissioner
Adrian Ramsay MP calls for the role to be scrapped before its abolition in 2028
Adrian Ramsay, Green MP for Waveney Valley has questioned the necessity of a £2 million by-election for the Norfolk Police and Crime Commissioner, given plans to abolish the position in 2028.
In a written query addressed to the Secretary of State for the Home Department, Ramsay asked about the possibility of removing the mandate to fill the Police and Crime Commissioner role.
He suggested that the Norfolk County Council Police and Crime Panel should assist in fulfilling the functions of the Commissioner leading up to the role's abolition.
In his letter, Ramsay emphasised the importance of providing the Police and Crime Panel with the necessary support and resources to manage these additional responsibilities.
Ramsay said, "Holding a £2m by-election for the Norfolk Police and Crime Commissioner makes little sense when that role will be abolished in 2028. I’ve asked the Government to remove the requirement for the role to be filled and to allow the Police and Crime Panel to take over."
This follows the sudden resignation of Sarah Taylor last week. Sarah was elected in May 2024, and stepped down immediately after a family health concern.
Her departure has triggered a legal requirement for a by-election under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.
Police and Crime Commissioners set priorities for police forces, hold them accountable, and appoint new chief constables when necessary. The roles were established in 2012 by the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition government to enhance police accountability.
The Government have been contacted for a response.