Manchester’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd is set to recruit a £55,000-a-year deputy to help manage his PCC workload much to the displeasure of his Conservative opponent.
Citing the need for extra help in holding police to account and championing safety issues, Mr Lloyd has opened applications for the role.
Mr Lloyd said: “I’ve carefully considered whether it was necessary for me to appoint a deputy and have come to the conclusion that this is a role I need to assist me in effectively holding Greater Manchester Police to account and driving forward the community safety agenda in our region.
“This role is an exciting opportunity for someone who shares my passion to build safer communities in Greater Manchester.
“It’s not going to be an easy role, but it offers a unique opportunity to shape policy, scrutinise the police, influence partner agencies and – ultimately – make Greater Manchester an even better place.”
Applicants must be able to manage a budget, deputise for the commissioner in his absence and be sympathetic to the aims and values of the current commissioner, though it’s not necessary to be a Labour party member.
The police boss has been strongly against government cuts since he became the first police and crime commissioner eight months ago.
Mr Lloyd, a former Labour MP, added: “We face a real challenge in Greater Manchester as a result of massive budget cuts to police, councils and other agencies imposed by central government, compounded by the difficult economic climate.
“Key to getting through this is the need to work together so I’m looking for someone who not only understands policing and crime, but has a track record of bringing agencies and local communities together to fight for a shared goal.
However Wigan Conservative Federation chairman Michael Winstanley, who was Mr Lloyd’s opponent for the role of Police and Crime Commissioner, has urged his former opponent to rethink his plans.
He said in a statement: “This position is not required and a scandal that taxpayer’s money will be wasted in this way.
“I urge Tony Lloyd to think again and drop this ridiculous idea otherwise he may find that people will have their say on this waste next time he is up for election.”
Applications close on July 12 and the successful applicant will be announced on July 26.
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