Make Our Streets Safe: Vote Philippa Thompson, Labour and Co-operative Party.

Full statement

I served in the Diplomatic Service, working with police and prison services overseas, on security from a human rights perspective, on the rule of law. I was an elected union leader, representing the interests of several thousand members of staff.

I live in West Wales with my family. My great-grandfather was a member of the Pembrokeshire Constabulary: I hope he would be proud to know I am standing for Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.

There’s a huge crisis in funding for policing and public services. The Conservative Westminster Government has so much to answer for having destroyed our country’s economy. Labour believes security is the bedrock on which opportunities are built, communities thrive, and local economies prosper.

Instead of standing up for security, the Tories have done the opposite. This wasn’t an accident – it was the result of deliberate choices. A choice to cut police from our streets, a choice to undermine respect for the rule of law. Our communities cannot afford more of the same. Things have got to change.

Labour will be tough on crime and tough on the causes of crime. We need to overhaul the way public services and community organisations work with young people, restoring hope, but also stronger early intervention. We need action across society to tackle violence against women and girls, and we need policing rooted in our communities.

I pledge to use my experience to support our police force so that our communities can have trust and confidence in our police.

That means keeping in close touch with you, and working with the Welsh Labour Government, so we make better, fairer choices – for Wales’ future.

Prepared by Marc Tierney, Election Agent, Bridge House, Swan Square, Haverfordwest, SA61 2AN.