The Panel
24. The Panel provides checks and balances in relation to the performance of the PCC. The Panel does not scrutinise the Chief Constable – it scrutinises the PCC’s exercise of their statutory functions. While the Panel is there to challenge the PCC, it must also exercise its functions with a view to supporting the effective exercise of the PCC’s functions. This includes—
(a)the power of veto (outside the Metropolitan Police District), by a two-thirds majority of the total Panel membership, over the level of the PCC’s proposed precept;
(b)the power of veto (outside the Metropolitan Police District), by a two-thirds majority of the total Panel membership, over the PCC’s proposed candidate for Chief Constable;
(c)the power to ask Her Majesty’s Inspector’s of Constabulary (“HMIC”) for a professional view when the PCC intends to dismiss a Chief Constable;
(d)the power to review the draft Plan and make recommendations to the PCC who must have regard to them;
(e)the power to review the PCC’s Annual Report and make reports and recommendations at a public meeting, which the PCC must attend;
(f)the power to require relevant reports and information in the PCC’s possession (except those which are operationally sensitive) to enable them to fulfil their statutory obligations;
(g)the power to require the PCC to attend the Panel to answer questions;
(h)the power (outside the Metropolitan Police District) to appoint an acting Police and Crime Commissioner where the incumbent PCC is incapacitated, resigns or is disqualified; and
(i)responsibility for complaints about a PCC, although serious complaints and conduct matters must be passed to the IPCC in line with legislation.