Bell backs independent police chief

FORMER Independent MP Martin Bell has given his support to Sarah Flannery as Independent candidate for Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner.
Speaking at the official launch of Sarah’s campaign the former Tatton MP described Sarah as “a bundle of Independent-minded energy”.
The former BBC war correspondent famed for his white suit, first met Sarah in 1997 when he launched his successful General Election campaign, when he stood as an independent on an anti “cash for questions” crusade.
“I quickly became aware of certain people who were doing good in their community,” he said, “and no-one did more good than Sarah.”
“You couldn’t possibly have a better candidate for Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner.”
Announcing her Seven Steps to policing in Cheshire, Sarah said: “The job of Police and Crime Commissioner is one that is best served by someone completely free of party politics.
“Do we want parties extending their arthritic grip on areas where they’ve no right to operate?
“As an Independent I come with a cast iron guarantee that I’ll put people and not a party, at the heart of policing. And as a symbolic gesture, that’s one of the reasons why we’re here at Darnhall Village Hall as it stands at the heart of Cheshire.
“The introduction of Police and Crime Commissioners could be the start in rebuilding confidence in our public institutions. I will kick-start that process in Cheshire by being visible and approachable as PCC for Cheshire.
“Here are my Seven Steps to policing in Cheshire:

1.I’ll be the people’s advocate, Independent of any party politics, with links with every town and parish council across Cheshire to make sure I know your views
2.I’ll support efficient and effective policing through supporting the police service and ensuring a joined-up approach to working with other agencies and partners
3.I’ll reduce crime by being focussed on more visible police presence, detection rates, re-offending, anti-social behaviour and dealing effectively with offenders
4.I’ll deliver value for money by supporting what works well and exploring resourceful commissioning that contributes to crime-cutting without sacrificing public safety for profit
5.I’ll improve accountability and public confidence by publishing regular updates on how your needs are being met – and being honest about what can and can’t be done
6.I’ll provide the best possible service for victims of crime by working with the Criminal Justice System and voluntary groups
7.I will represent the views of the young people of Cheshire by exploring opportunities for a Youth PCC, backed by a Youth Police and Crime Panel.”

The election takes place on November 15.
Sarah will be standing against Labour’s John Stockton and former assistant chief constable John Dwyer for the conservatives.

Picture shows former Tatton MP Martin Bell with Sarah Flannery, Independent candidate for Cheshire PCC.