Agenda item

The Panel considered a report of the Assistant Chief Executive which provided information on the process to be undertaken to hold a confirmation hearing for the post of Chief Constable and also considered a report from the Police and Crime Commissioner for the proposed candidate for the post of Chief Constable of Durham Constabulary (for copy see file of Minutes).

Mr Ron Hogg, Police and Crime Commissioner for Durham informed the Panel about the procedure and process undertaken for the appointment process to the post of Chief Constable.  Mr Hogg informed the Panel that the Chair of the Police and Crime Panel (PCP) had been invited to observe the assessment, shortlisting and interview process but had declined on the grounds of a potential conflict of interest with her role as Chair of the PCP.

The Panel then questioned Mr Barton on issues around partnership working to achieve the priorities of the PCC and the wider priorities for the Force area, response capability to unexpected requirements, the realisation of strategic objectives in operational effectiveness on the ground, the working relationship with the PCC and his vision for safer communities in times of austerity.  Mr Barton provided the Panel with full responses to all questions asked.

The Panel thanked Mr Hogg and Mr Barton for their attendance, and moved into closed session.

Resolved:

That under Section 100 (A) of the Local Government Act 1972, the public be excluded from the meeting for the following discussion on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in paragraph 1 of Schedule 12A to the said Act.

The Panel discussed the Police and Crime Commissioners recommendation to appoint Michael Barton as Chief Constable.  It was Moved by Councillor Laing, Seconded by Councillor Jones and

Resolved:

That the Panel endorse the appointment of the Michael Barton to the post of Chief Constable for Durham Constabulary in accordance with the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.