GMPA response to inspection

Date published: 25/02/2010

Cllr Paul Murphy, Chairman of Greater Manchester Police Authority, said: "GMPA welcomed the inspection as a real opportunity to objectively assess the way we work and it is reassuring that the report findings show there are strengths in every category covered by the inspection.

"The Authority is pleased the inspection team has recognised that GMPA has made genuine progress, particularly in the field of performance scrutiny, ahead of the publication of the inspection report.

"It is particularly pleasing to see there is great confidence in the Authority’s approach to the recruitment of Chief Officers. It is vital to have the right command team leading a police force and here in Greater Manchester, the report indicates we have that right.

"We also work hard to engage local people and involve them in policing through volunteer schemes. To have that work recognised by the inspectors is extremely satisfying.

"There is of course more to do and we are not complacent. As recognised by the inspectors, we are already using new and improved ways of working. For example, we now hold more scrutiny meetings with the Chief Officer team and have a Performance Management Group in place which is focussing on volume crime. In addition we have improved access to Force performance information which helps ensure Members can see the bigger picture.

"Work relating to risk processes and consultation work is also on the agenda and we look forward to getting to grips with the challenges which lie ahead. We recognise that we have a way to go and we will now take time to fully digest the content of the inspection report and consider it against our own improvement plans with a view to ensuring our approach to improvement is complete and moving in the right direction."