Elections for the Police and Crime Commissioner have been delayed until 2021 due to the Coronavirus epidemic.
Previously, Martyn Underhill had announced that he would step down for this year’s election which was due to take place in May, but has now announced that he will continue as commissioner until the vote is able to take place.
He said: “We are in the midst of an unprecedented generation-defining moment – one in which policing will serve a crucial role and in which the service provided by our incredible officers, staff and volunteers will be more vital than ever before.
“These next few days and weeks will also see the police using new powers and having to do something they have never previously taken responsibility for – enforcing a lockdown to ensure the Coronavirus does not spread and the public are kept safe.
“As forces use these new powers, PCCs and their offices will also take on the critical role of scrutinising exactly how they are doing so.”
Martyn Underhill pledges to continue to work closely with Chief Constable James Vaughan to make sure the policing by consent model works, and that services are as good as they can possibly be.
He adds: “The Coronavirus crisis has had an impact on every element of British life and I know that many people are finding it difficult”
But he still urges people to continue to follow Government advice and respect the lockdown to protect NHS workers and those more vulnerable.