Westminster proposals leaving Welsh communities vulnerable - decisions should lie with the Welsh Government
23/02/2012
Plaid welcomes expert's call for devolution of policing powers
Elfyn Llwyd MP has welcomed comments made by former chief constable Timothy Brain calling for policing in Wales to be devoled to the Welsh government.
Mr Llwyd said:
"Plaid Cymru has always maintained that policing powers should lie in the hands of the Welsh government and the comments made today by Dr Brain are very welcome.
"As recent reform proposals in North Wales have shown, the Coalition government is out of touch with the needs and expectations of our nation.
“A lack of geographical awareness coupled with cuts to services is leaving many people vulnerable due to Westminster proposals.
"It makes sense therefore to leave such important decisions that influence people's safety and wellbeing in the hands of those with greater local understanding.
"Devolving policing powers would increase the accountability of the Welsh government while strengthening the democratic process through allowing those who govern Wales to make the decisions which directly impact its people.
"Dr Brain's comments are both timely and important and show the widespread support for devolving criminal justice powers to Wales amongst officers and organisations such as the Howard League for Penal Reform."
Follow the link for Dr Timothy Brain’s comments: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-17113567