National chair not seeking re-election

25 October 2021

West Midlands Police Federation chair Jon Nott has acknowledged the commitment of national chair John Apter and the work he has done in trying to improve things for members.

Jon was commenting after John announced that he would not be standing in the forthcoming national chair elections.

Jon said: “John has led the Police Federation through some of the most challenging times in the history of the service with policing under pressure like never before.

“We have seen dramatic cuts in the number of officers, rising levels of abuse and aggression from the public, unfair attacks from an often hostile media and deteriorating relations with the Government.

“John can be proud of the way he has conducted himself and represented the rank and file during this tumultuous period.

“West Midlands Police Federation thanks him for his service and wishes him all the very best for the future.”

Announcing his decision not to stand for re-election, John said: “This role is a privilege to hold and it truly is an honour to do what I do. However, I feel after a pretty eventful three and a half years for the Police Federation and for policing in general, and with almost 30 years’ service, it’s time for me to move on.

“I’ve been a Fed rep for as long as I can remember; I love what the Federation and our reps do and I couldn’t be more proud of the small part I have played.

“A lot has happened since I became national chair, both professionally and personally; it’s been relentless. In all that time, all I have ever done is my best, and I hope that in some small way I have helped make a positive difference.

“I will continue to do my very best until the new national chair takes up the position in April 2022 and I wish them well in this exciting and unique role. It’s truly something special.”

John was the first national chair to be voted in by Federation members when he was elected in August 2018.