Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Ellis, says new legislation to update communications and data laws are essential in ensuring police and security services have the tools to tackle the changing face of crime.
He is hopeful Staffordshire MPs will support the new draft Investigatory Powers Bill which was published this week (November 4).
It marks a turnaround in Mr Ellis’ view prior to becoming Staffordshire’s PCC. Previously he had hinted the State did not need a reinforcement of powers.
An ongoing survey of hundreds of Staffordshire residents by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has shown that 90 per cent think it’s important to be able to trace people’s online activity to prevent serious and organised crime.
The Commissioner said: “My instincts are always, and continue to be, minimising the power of the State over its citizens but as well as understanding the facts now, the landscape has changed very significantly in the last few years.
“Even in the short time since becoming PCC I’ve seen crime and the threats faced change and become more complex. The growth of online crime is epidemic in its proportions and the threat from extremism and repulsive sexual abuse of children, often in highly organised ways, are even more difficult to tackle as technology and social media dominate people’s lives and the way individual’s communicate locally and across international borders.
“Policing and the law must evolve in order to meet the societal and technological changes now and in the future. Current legislation needs updating to make sure police and other agencies have the powers they need to keep people safe. But, just as important, is making sure that accountability is clear, rigorous and strong enough to provide the public with confidence.
“Ultimately this is a balance between personal privacy and protecting lives and the interests of our communities and country.
“Under the new Bill the safeguards are more substantial which is also backed up by the online survey we undertook earlier this year. The survey showed 85% of respondents supported wider monitoring of communications as long as the right oversight and safeguards are in place.
“It’s not just about technology though. Critical to intelligence gathering is the relationship between local neighbourhood officers and their communities.
“I’ve seen and learned many things in the last couple of years which make me certain beyond doubt that the relationship between privacy and the safety of people needs understanding and discussing by law makers and the wider public.
“This Investigatory Powers Bill, and its progress to this point, also shows the importance of people speaking up and making their voice heard on matters that affect the communities where they live, particularly crime or criminal behaviour. People can get in touch with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, let us know how crime affects you and help contribute towards helping to shape progress towards making a safer Staffordshire.”
Staffordshire people can have their say on this and other issues now at http://www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/have-your-say/
People can also get involved, including applying for a place on a Safer Neighbourhood Panel which are being introduced across Staffordshire, by visiting
