Commentary: Mr Winsor's statement of purpose

In his first major public speech, Tom Winsor has provided some clear guidance regarding changes to the police service which can be expected under his watch. In a lengthy and detailed presentation, the new civilian HMCIC has outlined what he considers to be the basic priorities for policing for the future. One central feature identified is a recognition of the changing role of the Inspectorate itself. Thus Winsor notes early on that 14 new Chief Constables have very recently been appointed via a process in which HMIC ‘has played no part’ (Winsor, 2013: 2). He adds that the role of the Inspectorate in the appointment of Chief Constables has been abolished and that HMIC now plays no formal role in these appointments.