Police Authority rejects retirement scheme

GMPA Chairman Councillor Paul Murphy

At the meeting of the Police Authority on Friday (17 February), Members unanimously voted not to implement Regulation A19, the regulation that allows forces to compulsorily retire police officers when they reach 30 years service.

Councillor Paul Murphy, Chairman of Greater Manchester Police Authority, said: “This has been a challenging issue for the Police Authority. 

“We have scrutinised the proposals put forward by the Force, considered the findings from the consultation and listened to the concerns raised by the Police Federation and Superintendent’s Association, to ensure we carry out a detailed and informed debate and involve all Members in the decision.

“With uncertainties surrounding the national policing landscape, such as the outcomes of the Winsor review, it would be premature for the Police Authority to invoke the regulation now.

“As a Police Authority we have a responsibility to deliver a balanced budget, which means finding savings of £134M over the next four years while ensuring that the needs of our communities are met. Some difficult decisions have and will be made and we don’t underestimate the impact this has on staff and officers. Their welfare is of paramount importance and we will continue to work with the Force to support them.”