Cumbria Police Authority appoint Chair and Vice Chair.

At the Annual Meeting of Cumbria Police Authority, held on Wednesday 15 June 2011, the members reappointed Councillor Ray Cole as Chairman and Mrs Lynda Shaw as Vice Chair of the Authority.

Following the meeting, Councillor Cole, who has been Chairman for the last two years said: “I consider it an honour and a privilege to be elected as Chairman of Cumbria Police Authority and I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous support the Authority members have given me over the past twelve months.

“As a direct consequence of the Government’s October 2010 Comprehensive Spending Review the Authority, working closely with the Constabulary, were required to make extremely difficult decisions to address the £18.7 million reduction to our budget over the next four years. Every possible avenue was explored to make savings and it was with great reluctance found necessary to dramatically reduce the number of support staff employed within the organisation. I fully understand the anguish and personal uncertainty this has given to our loyal and dedicated staff, sadly, there was no option.

“It is the intention of the Government to abolish Police Authorities in May 2012, and replace each one with a single elected Police and Crime Commissioner. I personally, do have severe reservations as to the wisdom of such a radical and untested programme of change; however we at Cumbria Police Authority will continue with ‘business as usual’, working closely with the Constabulary on behalf of the people of Cumbria and putting in place a transition strategy.

“During the transition period the Authority will ensure the Constabulary, within a reducing budget, continue to provide an efficient and effective Police Service for the residents and visitors to this county. I am absolutely confident that with the professionalism and vision of the Chief Constable, his Senior Command team, supported by the dedication of Cumbria Police Officers and support staff, the Constabulary will continue to deliver a police service which ranks with the best in the country.”

Mrs Shaw who has been appointed as Vice Chair of the Authority said: “I am pleased to have the opportunity to continue to support the Chair and the other Members of the Authority at a time of challenging budget cuts and future radical changes to police governance.

“I am one of 8 independent members on the Police Authority who collectively bring a variety and wealth of experience to the oversight of Cumbria Constabulary. The Authority’s task is to prepare for possible change while maintaining stamina and enthusiasm for our busy and important role.”