The Conservative Party candidate for West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Matt Bennett, has announced his running mate.

Walsall councillor Mohammed Arif will become deputy Commissioner if Mr Bennett secures the high-profile PCC position at elections to be held on November 15.

Cllr Arif will have responsibility for procurement, will develop a continuous improvement programme for the force and help to build better relationships between the police and the diverse communities of the West Midlands, Mr Bennett said.

He added: “I am delighted to have Arif on board. He is a very effective politician with a good track record and knowledge of the police. I know we will make a great team and bring in the changes the public wants to see.”

Mr Bennett, a former Birmingham city councillor, faces Labour candidate Bob Jones at the PCC election.

He is promising a “zero tolerance” approach to crime and a crackdown on anti-social behaviour.

Mr Bennett listed his main manifesto commitments:

• A clear message that no crime, big or small, is acceptable.

 

• More resources to combat antisocial behaviour hotspots. The most difficult areas need intensive policing and if extra support is required for this it must be made available

 

• Keep local police stations open to “provide the public with reassurance that the police are nearby and accessible”.

 

• Ensure the Police make strong objections to new alcohol licences where there are clear links between number of licensed premises and increases in crime and street drinking.

 

• Draw up a contract with the public, so that anyone who reports a crime or is the victim of crime, can expect clear standards of service.

 

• Work closely with local community safety partnerships and residents to set the right police priorities for each local area.

 

• Be accountable by holding at least one formal public meeting per constituency per year.

 

Mr Bennett added: “The needs and priorities of the public are at the heart of my programme. Anyone who suffers from antisocial behaviour in their area, anyone who is a victim of or witnessed a crime will get a better deal. Most Police officers I know work hard to protect the public, but the way the police force operates needs to become more responsive to ordinary people.”

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