A CONSERVATIVE councillor has been put forward as the proposed £64,500-a-year Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner.

Terry Norton, a Portsmouth councillor, has been named by commissioner Donna Jones as her preferred right-hand man.

It comes after her former deputy Luke Stubbs in February after making comments at a fire and rescue authority meeting about gender equality.

Mrs Jones has recommended Cllr Norton due to their experience of working together at Portsmouth City Council, where she was former Tory group leader.

In his role as a teacher Mr Norton has helped the police and crime commissioner to understand the risks of children either offending or being exploited, she added.

Cllr Norton said: "I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in and working with Donna once again.


READ MORE: Equality goals ‘only benefit women and minorities’ resigns: Luke Stubbs resigns


"I’ve worked closely with her for a number of years and have always wanted a senior full-time role in the world of politics.

"My experience in teaching certainly provides some transferrable skills – this is a public-facing role and something I’m hugely passionate about.

"I look forward to working to meet the needs of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to deliver the promise of more police, safer streets.’

In his report, chief executive Jason Kenny said: "Commissioner Donna Jones has based this decision on the experience Mr Norton has of working closely with her in public front-facing roles over the last five years.

"Mr Norton knows the police and crime commissioner’s approach, opinions and vision for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Daily Echo: Terry NortonTerry Norton

"The commissioner has chosen an individual who has a strong background in teaching and local government."

Cllr Norton is due to be confirmed for the role a Police and Crime Panel meeting on Monday, April 25.

The job was not advertised, with the commissioner free to appoint anyone she deems fit for the role.

His salary for the position will be set at 75 per cent of Mrs Jones’ pay, who receives £86,000 a year.

If approved, Cllr Norton will focus on police performance and representation of the police and crime commissioner’s office, freeing up Mrs Jones to focus on visibility and public engagement.

Mr Kenny added: "One area of focus for the deputy commissioner will be the engagement with health services.

"Mental health, and the impact on policing, are significant.

"Understanding the long term approach to crime prevention achieved by adopting a public health approach is key."

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