To maintain public confidence, the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) must make decisions in a way that’s effective, transparent and accountable.
The PCC is committed to making sure decisions are taken lawfully, fairly and in a manner, which reflects the highest standards of openness and integrity
The principles of good decision-making
All PCC decisions are taken in accordance with the principles of good governance. Decisions must be:
- Lawful;
- Transparent;
- Accountable;
- Comply with relevant laws and governance frameworks;
- Recorded and published (unless exempt;)
- Informed by the best information, analysis and professional advice available;
- Equal to the significance and impact of the decision.
Decisions of significant public interest
These decisions have a substantial impact on local communities, involve large financial sums or relate to key strategic functions. Significant public interest decisions typically include:
- Strategic Direction: Development of the Police and Crime Plan.
- Financial Decisions: Setting the annual budget and council tax precept.
- Key Appointments: Appointment, suspension, or removal of the Chief Constable.
- Major Contracts: Commissioning and awarding contracts/grants of significant financial value.
- Asset Management: Significant asset acquisitions or disposals.
- Contentious Matters: Issues that are novel, politically sensitive, or likely to have a significant impact on local communities
Who makes – and checks – decisions?
The PCC holds sole legal authority to make decisions relating to the exercise of his statutory duties.
Decisions must be informed by accurate information, evidence and appropriate professional advice.
The Chief Executive is the statutory Monitoring Officer. She is responsible for making sure all decisions are lawful, fair and compliant with governance requirements.
The PCC’s Chief Finance Officer is responsible for the proper administration of the PCC’s financial affairs. He must be consulted on all decisions, which have financial implications
Recording and Publication
The OPCC maintains a register of all decisions considered to be of significant public interest.
In these cases, a decision record form is completed and published on the PCC’s website within three full working days of approval.
Decisions relating to exempt matters are recorded internally but may not be published in full. Decisions may be exempt due to legal, commercial or operational sensitivities.
In addition, some decisions will not normally be regarded as being of significant public interest.
Decision making routes
The PCC makes decisions through internal decision-making processes. He also considers reports presented at the Joint Strategic Board or relevant Collaboration Boards.
The internal decision‑making process makes sure decisions are taken in a timely, proportionate and transparent manner, particularly for matters of significant public interest.
Annual budget and commissioning intentions will always be published at the start of each financial year,
Scrutiny
Cleveland Police and Crime Panel has a statutory duty to scrutinise the PCC’s decisions.
The PCC presents a report to each Panel meeting detailing decisions taken since the previous meeting.
Further information
Find out more about the PCC’s decision making process by reading our latest policy!