Crime: Violence Against Women and Girls

Lord Mackenzie of Framwellgate Excerpts

Thursday 8th November 2012 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

Yes, I absolutely can confirm that. It is worth making clear that under this Government we have set aside £40 million of secure funding until 2015, and it is guaranteed funding that will continue. Within that £40 million, £10.5 million has been allocated to rape support centres located throughout the UK.

[Lord Mackenzie of Framwellgate]

My Lords, if a dispute arises between the police and crime commissioner and the chief constable, who would arbitrate? If the matter was not resolved, could that lead to a loss of confidence by the commissioner in the chief constable, which could lead to dismissal?

[Baroness Stowell of Beeston]

The noble Lord should be clear that operational decisions for policing remain very much the responsibility of the chief constable. The role of the police and crime commissioner is to be the voice of the local community and to make sure that, in setting the strategic priorities, the local community’s voice is heard.