Paul Cannon is seeking the Labour nomination to be the Police and Crime Commissioner in South Wales. If you are intending to stand to be Police and Crime Commissioner where you live, you can submit your own Candidate Statement, so get in touch. Others are on the way, and we are looking for 400 words, a photo (of you!) that you have rights to, and preferably an imprint, which will be needed for the formal election period later this year.​

I am 59 years of age, married with three children and two grandchildren.

I am a qualified carpenter and joiner by trade, a 30 year policeman by profession and, since 2004, I have been an elected executive member at Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council with current responsibility for Economic Development and Safer Communities.

I joined South Wales Police in 1973, retiring in 2003. During my service, I have walked the beat as a young constable, and taken charge of complex major investigations as a Detective Inspector. I have a comprehensive knowledge of the police and police working practices.

In 1995, I founded the registered charity R.A.I.D., Rhondda Against Illegal Drugs.
In 1996, I was awarded the South Wales Police Shrievalty Cup for outstanding community service.
In 1997, I was a UK individual winner of the Whitbread Volunteer Action Awards.
In 1999, I was awarded the Queens Police Medal for distinguished services by Her Majesty the Queen.

Whilst a police officer, I spent six weeks in the USA examining the many and varied ways they tackle the issue of illegal drugs. As a direct result of this visit, I introduced the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education programme) into South Wales, which consequently set the benchmark for the current S.A.F.E. system which is now employed throughout our primary school system

Having spent 30 years as a frontline police officer, and the last 8 years working in the community as an elected County Borough Councillor, the clear challenge for me will be to restore public faith in, and support for, the police and criminal justice system.

This can only be achieved by working collaboratively with all interested parties, including the very communities who are affected by crime and disorder. I have clearly demonstrated my commitment and willingness to engage in such a process.

The role of Police and Crime Commissioner is, without doubt, a position that will require a huge level of expertise and ability in many demanding areas. I do not underestimate the challenges, however, I believe that I have the energy and expertise to rebuild bridges between the criminal justice system and communities which sadly continue to deteriorate.

I see the appointment as a golden opportunity to deliver practical and meaningful progress within community safety which will have a sustained and positive effect throughout South Wales.

I will be a strong and powerful advocate of fairness for all, irrespective of social standing.