Lack of interest in Chief of OFPOL role
There have been only two applicants for the previously coveted role of Chief Inspector of Constabulary. The role has now been described as less powerful and more like leading a watchdog than the traditional inspectorate of the past 153 years.
There have been only two applicants for the previously coveted role of Chief Inspector of Constabulary. The role has now been described as less powerful and more like leading a watchdog than the traditional inspectorate of the past 153 years.
Police Professional has learnt that just two applicants, Denis OConnor and Jane Stitchbury, both currently serving Inspectors of Constabulary, have put themselves forward to take on the role left vacant by Sir Ronnie Flanagan in December.
Senior officers have speculated that the failure to attract any serving chief constables is due to Her Majestys Inspectorate of Constabularys (HMIC) changing role under government proposals.
The Policing and Crime Bill currently making its way through Parliament changes the Chief HMIs powers and sets the organisations direction as the fierce advocate of the public interest. Senior officers have said this is equivalent to creating an OFPOL: a watchdog rather than an inspectorate.
Sir Keith Povey served as Chief Inspector of Constabulary between 2002 and 2005 and said he would not want the job now.
I think the role has changed substantially, taking away the power of the HMIC and putting in place almost an audit regime.
The Chief HMI no longer chairs the senior appointments panel, puts forward officers for honours and awards, or has the lead role in appraising chief constables. There has been a concerted effort to remove its powers and I am sure it will have affected the decision of chief constables to apply for the post. I certainly wouldnt.