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Chief constable to help police the press

The chief constable of Cambridgeshire Constabulary has joined the Press Complaints Commission.

Julie Spence will sit on the press watchdog’s board and replaces Vivien Hepworth who stepped down as a public member of the PCC to lead the independent review into its governance.

PCC chairman Baroness Buscombe said: “I am delighted that Julie Spence is joining the PCC as a public member.

“Her enormous experience in the police service will bring an important new perspective to the board which I know we will value.

“In addition, her substantial track record in public life will make her a tremendous asset to us.”

Julie added: “Throughout my career in the police service, I have seen first-hand what it is like for ordinary members of the public who find themselves caught up in the media spotlight, or subject to media scrutiny.

“I have been impressed by the proactive work that the PCC does with vulnerable people, and am looking forward to contributing to the work of the PCC as it continues to make rulings which balance rights and freedoms with wider responsibilities.”

Comments

Neil Hodge (18/01/2010 15:42:27)
This would be great if the police could be trusted to respect the rights of journalists and photographers – perhaps her closer involvement might help in the long-run? I suppose there will not be a reciprocal arrangement for the press to sit in on the IPCC….