Keith Hunter

I have a record of success in crime and anti-social behaviour reduction, improving confidence and challenging those who stand in the way of improvement, all delivered in the Humberside area.

Nationally recognised for outstanding leadership whilst having the largest command in the Force, I became a qualified advisor to underperforming Forces in other areas. I successfully graduated from the National Police Strategic Command Course qualifying me for promotion to Chief Officer rank. In achieving this I saw how the proximity of Chief Police Officers to Government promotes conformity and limits willingness to speak on behalf of the law abiding majority. When the role of Commissioner was created I felt that without establishment shackles my huge experience and training could be put to good effect in driving change and properly representing the views of the public. Whilst still on an upward professional trajectory I took the difficult decision to leave the service to seek nomination as the Labour PCC candidate.

It is meaningless any candidate promising transparency and accountability and being the voice of the people without having the knowledge to ask the right questions, understand the effect of strategy and policy and having the ability to translate public demand for more of everything into a coherent financial plan, linked across various local authority areas and numerous criminal justice, voluntary and victim support agencies. This is not a role for an interested amateur.

Having managed a devolved budget of £34m and being involved in Force level strategic financial change management projects, I can evidence the executive management skills and experience recognised as being required for the role. Linking this with my operational background and experience of working with partners on both banks of the Humber to deliver significantly improved performance, I believe I have what is required for the role. The real test is what the public think though. In Hull I achieved, every month, the highest public confidence figures for the Force – never below 85%. In an area of high deprivation that is a significant figure.

I am seeking the Labour candidature because I was conditioned through my upbringing to believe in community, the benefit of joint endeavour and fairness of opportunity. I also believe, however, that Labour is the real party of law and order, which can be proud of its record on crime, investment and support for all criminal justice agencies. I believe I can make that case.