Fed secretary urges new Home Secretary to give officers "desperately needed support"

13 November 2023

The secretary of West Mercia Police Federation has called on the new Home Secretary to allow officers to do their job without “undue political interference”.

Pete Nightingale was speaking following the appointment this morning of James Cleverly to the position.

Mr Cleverly, who had been Foreign Secretary, replaced Suella Braverman, who had been sacked from her role.

“I think Ms Braverman’s position was becoming untenable and causing a distraction for all,” he said.

“I’d like Mr Cleverly to support the police and allow us to get on with the job of policing without undue political interference.”

And Pete called on the new Home Secretary to take steps towards making policing an attractive and respected career.

“Not everything can be a priority,” he said. “But giving the support that is desperately needed, restoring pay and reducing workload, would be a good start to making policing a more attractive career that is respected.”

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr Cleverly said he was honoured to be the new Home Secretary.

He said: “It is an honour to be appointed as Home Secretary.

“The goal is clear. My job is to keep people in this country safe.”