Police Authority

[CEC]

Can anyone tell me why people who work for local authorities cannot be an independent member of a Police Authority. I work in a school ofice so could not apply. It would be OK though if I were a teacher!!
I am told that over 2.1 million people work for local authorities. Seems a bit unfair to me.

[Buenchico]

Since you were appointed to your post (and could be sacked from it) by the people who pay the bills to fund the police (i.e. the local authority), you can't be regarded as truly 'independent'. (i.e. in theory, your employers could put pressure on you not to 'rock the boat', as a member of the Police Authority, by hinting that your job prospects could be at risk).

Although (most) teachers are paid by local authorities, they are appointed by (and answerable to) the school's governors. Thus there is no conflict of interest.

Chris

[CEC]

Thank you for that Chris. Doesn't make me feel any better though.