Last week, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Rupert Matthews defected from the Conservatives to Reform.
This decision is not about principle. It is about political calculation, positioning himself for what he sees as an easier route to the next stage of his career. We all know Mr Matthews has aspirations for higher office, perhaps an MP seat, or the Leicestershire Combined Authority mayoralty. Maybe then he can enjoy a larger allowance and spend more taxpayers’ money on his breakfasts and ever expanding eccentric wardrobe.
Many of us remember the 2024 PCC election very clearly. I, along with many Conservative colleagues, spent hours delivering leaflets, knocking on doors, and making the case for his re-election. We did this despite knowing he was not universally popular among Conservatives, because we believed in working for the team and supporting our party’s candidate. To jump ship mere months later is an insult to everyone who campaigned for him and to every taxpayer footing the bill for his office.
It is also worth noting Mr Matthews’ record in office. In just four years, he has appointed, and then parted company with, no fewer than eight Chief Executives, one of which was a former Chief Constable who was dismissed for gross misconduct. It seems his “common sense antenna” is nowhere near as finely tuned as his political one.
The PCC’s role is not without significant responsibility, nor cost. This year, Band D households are paying around £300.23 in police precept. Of the £255 million policing budget, £112.3 million comes directly from local Council Tax. While most of this funds the work of Leicestershire Police, the Office of the PCC costs around £5.24 million annually.
The PCC role itself is, in my view, a waste of public money. I have long questioned the value of the PCC system, which I see as an unnecessary political layer that does little to improve frontline policing. When the individual holding the post treats it as a stepping stone for personal ambition rather than a public trust, those doubts are only reinforced.
If Mr Matthews wishes to serve under the Reform banner, then he should resign and put himself before the electorate on that ticket. Remaining in post after changing political allegiance is not only opportunistic, it is disrespectful to voters, to the volunteers who campaigned for him, and to every taxpayer funding his office.
Public service should be about principle, not personal advantage.
