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Opening up the police to greater accountability

Tue, 12 Feb 2013

Commenting on the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) reforms announced today by the Home Secretary, Co-Chair of the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Party Committee on Home Affairs, Justice and Equality, Julian Huppert said:

“In order to build a stronger economy and a fairer society we have to make sure everyone obeys the rules, especially those who are charged with enforcing them.
 
“From the case of Ian Tomlinson through to the hacking scandal, Liberal Democrats have always been clear that the public must have a transparent way to hold the police to account. That is why Liberal Democrat Conference voted to reform the IPCC and called for new ways to professionalise the police service.
 
“I’m delighted that the Home Secretary agrees and that the Coalition Government is now opening up the police service to greater accountability by giving the IPCC new powers and resources.
 
“It is also great news that the coverage of the IPCC will be expanded to include private contractors. Liberal Democrats have long said that if they act like police, they should be accountable like the police.”