Councillors vote overwhelmingly against no confidence motion

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez says she is encouraged after Cornwall councillors voted overwhelmingly to defeat a motion of no confidence in her.

"Councillors have today spent a significant amount of time debating a motion which has done little but prove the democratic benefit of my office," she said.

 "I am very pleased that councillors have acknowledged the work that I and my office are involved in, in so many communities across the county, in places like St Austell, St Ives, Newquay and Truro.

 "It was heartening that they highlighted the work we are doing on community safety, on the development of CCTV, on the expansion of tri-service officers.

 "Many of them showed a good understanding of the relationship the PCC has with the chief constable, with the Police and Crime Panel, with local authorities, with businesses and with all our community organisations.

 "Having said all that, I have also heard them call for me to work even more closely with them to get the best possible police service that can be delivered in Cornwall. I promise I will do that alongside the chief constable.

 "I also hear concerns about the proposed merger of Devon and Cornwall Police and the Dorset force and I would welcome further discussions at all levels to ensure those views are represented in ongoing discussions."