Donna Jones, Chair of the APCC responds to the terms of reference for the accountability review into firearms officers
“We welcome the publication of the Home Office's terms of reference for the review, and that the voice and experience of PCCs has been reflected in its development. There is a need to recognise the difficult and dangerous job that firearms officers undertake to protect the public and it is essential they feel supported and trusted to apply their experience and skills appropriately to save lives. Equally important is the need to reassure the wider public, and key communities particularly, of the protections and standards that are applied to the deployment of firearms.
As PCCs, we have a responsibility to ensure police forces are justified and proportionate in their use of weapons and that officers execute their powers safely and to the highest possible standards. When action falls short of these standards or there is a clear abuse of power, it is imperative they are rigorously examined, and if appropriate, brought before a court to retain public confidence in policing. PCCs will continue to work with national policing partners across England and Wales to ensure the review achieves much needed clarity for officers and communities.”