The government has announced that Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) across England and Wales will be abolished by 2028 as part of a major shake-up aimed at saving £100m and redirecting funds into frontline policing.
Ministers say the current PCC model — introduced 12 years ago to improve transparency in policing — has “failed to live up to expectations”. Home Office figures suggest fewer than 20% of people can name their commissioner, and the government argues the money spent on elections and administration would be better used to fund around 320 additional police officers nationwide each year.
When commissioners’ terms end in 2028, their responsibilities will move to elected mayors or council leaders, depending on local structures.
The change has sparked intense debate nationally, with some PCCs warning that scrapping the role risks weakening public scrutiny at a time when policing confidence is already under pressure.
What it means for Hampshire, the Isle of Wight — and Andover
Hampshire and Isle of Wight PCC Donna Jones said the announcement was “not unexpected” following the government’s plan for every region of England to be represented by an elected mayor by 2029.
However, she criticised the lack of public involvement in such a significant shift.
“What is disappointing is the lack of consultation with the public before today’s announcement,” she said.
Ms Jones emphasised that nothing changes immediately for Hampshire communities, including Andover.
“For us, the position is unchanged because Hampshire and the Solent Mayoral Combined County Authority will be formed in 2026, and PCC powers are due to be transferred to the mayor’s office in 2027.”
She highlighted a series of initiatives she has introduced since her election in 2021, saying these have strengthened policing locally:
- 815 additional police officers funded
- Eight police stations reopened
- A named Local Bobby scheme (rolled out nationally)
- A new Victims Hub
- £11m invested annually into victim and perpetrator support
- Reductions in knife crime
- Funding of the UKPAC initiative, which is targeting prolific shoplifters — an issue frequently raised by Andover businesses
Jones said having a single, visible leader accountable directly to the public has improved scrutiny and helped policing focus on what matters to local residents.
“Whatever follows in our place must be rooted in local and national accountability, clear and identifiable leadership and connected to local communities. The public deserve nothing less.”
Further details on the national transition are expected later this year, but Hampshire’s policing governance will remain unchanged until the planned mayoral handover in 2027.