Federation react to examination of the IOPC: This is about fairness and allowing our members in often difficult and stressful situations a foreseeable end

30 October 2019

”This is about fairness and allowing our members in often difficult and stressful situations a foreseeable end.”

Kent Police Federation Chairman Neil Mennie reacts to the news that The Home Affairs Select Committee is to "examine the role and remit of the Independent Office for Police Conduct." 

MPs will look at "progress in reforming the system following criticisms of the time taken to resolve complaints." 

Neil said: “A few years ago, the IPCC changed its name to the IOPC and gave the impression of a ‘new broom’ and a change in the way it conducts business.

“Many colleagues at the time hoped ‘it wasn’t just a change of name on the door’

“Although some progress has been made there are still matters involving our members that proceed at what best can be described as lethargic.

“I have also had some good experience of the IOPC being prompt and particularly around post incident procedure.

“The point has often been made that we as the police are subject to timelines when undertaking investigations and case preparation. It therefore follows that IOPC investigations should be subject of reasonable time limits and with consequences should those not be met.

“This review is very welcome and having independent scrutiny by the IOPC is understandable and should seek to maintain and increase public confidence in the Police.”