£5k deposit puts independents off standing for police role
INDEPENDENT candidates hoping to take charge of the county's police force are being invited to an information briefing.
It follows criticism that the high campaigning costs and a hefty £5,000 deposit are restricting the race to become Staffordshire's police and crime commissioner to only major political parties.
The briefing at Stoke-on-Trent City Council's Civic Centre next week will offer advice on how to register as a candidate, full details of the election timetable, as well as rules on campaign spending.
Candidates are required to place a deposit of £5,000 to stand for the role – 10 times the amount stipulated in parliamentary elections – which is only refunded if they poll at least five per cent of the total vote.
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Currently only the Conservatives and Labour have confirmed they are standing in Staffordshire, represented by councillors Matthew Ellis and Joy Garner respectively.
Paul Hackney, returning officer for the elections in Staffordshire, said: "We know there may be people thinking of being a candidate in the elections. This briefing will help people understand the process and get a clearer idea of what to expect if they do become a candidate or agent for the elections.
"I'd encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch and come along to the briefing session."
Elected commissioners will replace police authorities made up of councillors and community leaders; taking responsibility for each force's budget and priorities.
The information session takes place at 10am on Thursday, September 27. Elections for the new role will be held on November 15.
Comments
by Redtone
Thursday, September 20 2012, 2:11PM
“The post is completely un-necessary. How did we manage for so long without these Commissioners? Another layer of expense that will start a race to the bottom as candidates, affiliated or independent, strive to 'out-tough' each other. Robocops, who will seriously undermine any notion of community policing.
Another winner from the brilliant minds that brought us the Big Society and hug a hoodie.
The government are spending millions on a leaflet and media campaign in the coming weeks amid fears of widespread voter apathy. Turnout could be lower than 20%. I know this unelected rabble don't much value popular support - but less than a fifth of the electorate deciding something as vitally important as policing policy? What utter CaMORON!”
by mainstar
Thursday, September 20 2012, 12:08PM
“Why do you think its 5,000. So another party puppet can enforce the party line in another area of our lives. This type of election should exclude anyone who is or has been in parliament. It should be for local people and those preferably with previous experience of the police.
Anywhere the election results in a big salary plus perks, the political parties come sniffing like rats.”
by yamahaman
Thursday, September 20 2012, 11:43AM
“The last thing we need is a political puppet getting involved in policing matters. Leave it to those who know what they are doing. What makes a local council member think that they have the understanding of police matters to do this job. Another waste of our much needed cash.”