Deputy PCC stands down as `not possible to build a professional relationship`

Hampshire’s police and crime commissioner’s (PCC’s) deputy has stood down following an apparent breakdown in their working relationship, just three weeks after being confirmed in the role. Following an apparent breakdown in the working relationship between the Hampshire police and crime commissioner (PCC) and his deputy, Flick Drummond has left the role. Although she began working as Michael Lane’s deputy PCC two months ago, Mrs Drummond was officially appointed following a confirmation hearing at a Police and Crime Panel meeting on October 6. The pair were unable to build a “professional relationship”, and have both decided the best course of action is for the deputy to stand down. Mrs Drummond, who was the MP for Portsmouth from 2015 until June’s general election, was hired to help the PCC develop and run campaigns and increase engagement across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. But she is now leaving the post “to avoid any disruption to the work of the PCC and his staff”. Mr Lane said: “The relationship between a PCC and his deputy has to be close and, unfortunately, it has become apparent this could not happen in this case. Following talks, we have both come to the decision that this is the best course of action to take. “I would like to express my sincere thanks to Flick for all she has done for me over the last two months and her willingness to consider this post, supporting and deputising for me. “It seemed we had complementary skills that would have enabled the close rapport needed to work together and add value for the people we serve, to keep them safer. This is a disappointment to us both.” Mrs Drummond added: “I have very much enjoyed my time as the Deputy PCC and I thank Michael for the opportunity. “Sometimes it is not possible to build a professional relationship between two people, through no fault of either party. In such a situation it is right I leave to avoid any disruption to the work of the PCC and his staff. “I’m now looking forward to pursuing my ambition to be re-elected to Parliament. I wish Michael all the best with the excellent work he is doing.”