The government plans to abolish Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) in England and Wales by 2028, transferring their responsibilities to mayors and council leaders to save at least £100 million and fund neighbourhood policing.

Policing Minister Sarah Jones argues the PCC model has failed to deliver accountability and confidence, pointing to low turnout in 2024 and that about 40% of people don’t know PCCs exist.

PCCs, elected since 2012, set police budgets and appoint chief constables; the reform aims to streamline accountability and address perceived weaknesses of the PCC system.

The overall tone reflects concern about reduced direct democratic accountability alongside possible gains in local integration and efficiency.

Supporters contend the plan would enhance local and national accountability, sharpen leadership, and protect focus on community safety and victims’ services while freeing resources for frontline policing.

The government’s reform is part of a broader push to implement mayors across the country as a core element of policing changes.

A list of current Southwest PCCs and their jurisdictions is provided to illustrate the affected areas.

Clare Moody notes the change isn’t immediate; the current system remains until 2028 with ongoing commissioning and scrutiny during the transition.

PCCs and regional figures, including Gloucestershire, Devon, Cornwall, Merseyside, and Avon and Somerset, express disappointment about the move and warn of potential impacts on local leadership and funding.

A White Paper on wider policing reforms is expected later; opposition figures criticize delays and call the announcement tinkering without a clear plan.

The White Paper is intended to outline tech, innovation, and structural changes to support crime reduction and taxpayer value, though critics say progress has been slow.

Opposition politicians argue there has been little progress on policing reform, viewing the announcement as insufficient without a substantive plan.

The controversy centers on balancing cost savings, accountability, and public trust while transitioning to a new local governance model for policing.