Committee hears evidence from West Midlands and Surrey Police Chiefs
22 March 2012
Home Affairs Committee take evidence on the role of private companies in policing
This topical session is a chance for the Committee to find out more about the contract which West Midlands and Surrey police have put out to tender for various services currently performed by police staff and officers. The session is an opportunity for the Committee to establish some facts about the contract and to explore its implications.
Witnesses
At 12.15 pm, Thursday 22 March, Grimond Room, Portcullis House
- Chief Constable Chris Sims, West Midlands Police
- Chief Constable Lynne Owens, Surrey Police
Committee Chair Rt Hon Keith Vaz MP said:
"The role of private companies in policing has been controversial. The Committee examined collaboration between police forces and the private sector as part of its report on the New Landscape of Policing in September 2011. We expressed caution about advocating such an approach, given the lack of evidence about the advantages and disadvantages of collaboration.
We, therefore, look forward to hearing from West Midlands and Surrey Police forces about the content of the recently announced contract and its potential implications. I am particularly concerned about the accountability of private companies and about the timing of the decision, given that new Police and Crime Commissioners will not be in place until November."