APCC response to today's Queen’s Speech
Responding to the measures set out in today’s Queen’s Speech, APCC Chair Katy Bourne said:
“Today’s Queen’s Speech has a strong focus on tackling violent crime and strengthening public confidence in our criminal justice system, key areas which will be of interest to all Police and Crime Commissioners.
“The formal reintroduction of the Domestic Violence Bill will be very much welcomed, and PCCs will look to engage with the detail in the legislation as it progresses through Parliament. Measures proposed through a new Police Protections Bill, including proposals to establish a Covenant, are an important step forward in recognising the heroic work and sacrifice of police officers in all of our communities. The Mental Health Act reforms are also a key area for PCCs and we look forward to engaging with the White Paper when published.
“In addition, measures included in a Serious Violence Bill, contain a new duty on agencies to collaborate to prevent violence. I know that PCCs are already engaged on this and are committed to working with their Chief Constables and wider local partners to reduce serious violence, including through taking a more preventative whole-system approach.”