Question

Difficulty: EasyThe Police Force and Duties

In England and Wales, who is responsible for setting the local police priorities and holding the police force to account?

  1. Police and Crime CommissionersAnswer
  2. B
    The Home Secretary
  3. C
    The Lord Chief Justice
  4. D
    Local Magistrates

Answer

Police and Crime Commissioners
Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) are directly elected by the public in England and Wales. Their duties include setting the local police budget, determining policing priorities in the area, and holding the Chief Constable to account for the force's performance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the governance structure of the police in England and Wales.
The police must be independent of the government but remain accountable to the public.
This is a core principle of the UK justice system.
2
Recall the specific role created to ensure this accountability.
Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) were introduced to provide a direct link between the police and the public.
PCCs are elected to set local priorities and ensure the police are meeting the needs of their community.

Key Concept

Police Accountability and Governance
Estimated Time:45s
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