The Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Panel met on Monday 13 April 2026 to discuss several key issues, including the purchase of electricity, public perception surveys, and concerns about potential police force reorganisation. The panel also reviewed and adopted updated policies and procedures, and addressed a report concerning the Deputy Commissioner's vehicle tax and MOT status.

Decisions Published by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC)

The panel reviewed two decisions published by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC). The first, Decision 007, concerned the purchase and supply of electricity. The PFCC, Ben Adams, highlighted this as a notable example of national procurement opportunities for police forces, which could lead to better value for money, especially in light of rising energy costs. He noted that while joint buying can offer savings, actual outcomes depend on market conditions. The second decision, Decision 008, related to public perception surveys. The PFCC emphasised the importance of these surveys in understanding public confidence and priorities for local policing, particularly with the current focus on neighbourhood policing. He explained that the new survey methods, including the use of social media, would provide a richer picture of public experiences and expectations.

Questions to the PFCC from Members of the Public

Two significant public questions were addressed. Councillor Vince Merrick, speaking on behalf of South Staffordshire, raised concerns about the government's proposal to reduce the number of police forces from 43 to around 12, and its potential impact on visibility in areas like South Staffordshire. This question was linked to a query from Mr. Tom Higgins regarding the recruitment and deployment of new neighbourhood officers, particularly in South Staffordshire.

The PFCC, Ben Adams, expressed concern that a reduction in police forces could lead to a loss of local control and accountability. He stated that while efficiencies in areas like finance and IT are welcome, a move to larger regional forces could detach policing from local needs and priorities. He warned that this could be the end of Staffordshire Police as an independent force, and urged local councils to engage with the government review led by Lord Hogan-Howe to ensure a balance between national efficiency and local delivery. He also addressed the recruitment of neighbourhood officers, noting that while the target for these officers had been met, the force was struggling to recruit Special Constables, attributing this to the increasing demands of modern life on volunteers.

Mrs. Mallender submitted questions concerning international matters, which the PFCC deemed outside the remit of the police service and suggested should be directed to her Member of Parliament.

Review of Panel's Policies and Procedures

The panel discussed the report from the working group on the review of the panel's policies and procedures. Councillor Richard Cox, Chair of the Panel, noted that the working group had met three times to revise the terms of reference, procedure rules, and complaints process. He acknowledged that while the work had been necessary, future legislative changes might impact the panel's structure. The panel agreed to adopt the revised terms of reference, procedure rules, and complaints process. They also agreed to review these documents annually and to publish them on the panel's webpages. Consideration will also be given to including a statement of mutual respect in the panel members' annual training. The Commissioner, Ben Adams, commented that these updated procedures would provide the panel with a head start in defining its role within any future governance structures in Staffordshire.

Deputy Commissioner - Motor Vehicle Tax & MOT

A report was presented detailing an incident where the Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Dave Evans, unknowingly drove his personal vehicle without valid road tax or an MOT for 19 days. Mr. Evans explained that a direct debit issue with the DVLA, combined with a mistaken belief about his MOT expiry date, led to the oversight. He discovered the issue after a media enquiry and immediately took steps to rectify it, booking an MOT and taxing the vehicle. He also paid an £80 penalty issued by the DVLA. Staffordshire Police assessed the situation and, applying the same standards as for any member of the public, determined that a non-endorseable fixed penalty fine was appropriate, which Mr. Evans paid. Councillor Charlotte Atkins questioned the impact on the Safer Roads Partnership, and Mr. Evans confirmed he had stepped down as its chair to avoid distraction. Councillor Anthony Screen stated he was personally satisfied with the panel's thorough review of the matter.

Questions to the PFCC by Panel Members

During this agenda item, Mr. Chris Elliott asked about the protocol for giving advice on speeding rather than issuing fines. The Commissioner explained that police officers have discretion, and that education, such as speed awareness courses, is a key part of the road safety partnership's approach. He also highlighted the increased capacity and 24/7 operation of the roads crime team.

Councillor Screen followed up on the Commissioner's earlier warning about police force reorganisation, asking for clarification on whether this meant the abolition of Staffordshire Police as an independent force or a loss of local control. The Commissioner reiterated his concern that a move to a dozen regional forces could lead to a loss of local accountability and a disconnect from community safety partnerships. He stressed the importance of maintaining local delivery and accountability, even if efficiencies are gained at a regional level.

Dates of Future Meetings and Work Programme

The panel reviewed its future meeting dates and work programme. The Commissioner, Ben Adams, highlighted the planned visit to Pyre Hill, the fire headquarters, on 23 June, encouraging members to attend. He noted that the future of Pyre Hill as a headquarters is under consideration due to potential service cuts and the need for estate efficiencies. The panel agreed to schedule this visit.

The panel also discussed the ongoing review of its policies and procedures, with the working group's report to be considered at the current meeting. The Commissioner noted that upcoming legislation would likely impact the police, fire, and crime panel structure.