Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill

I have just checked with my right hon. Friend and he is absolutely clear that he did not say that. I say to the right hon. Gentleman, who seems to think that the issue has suddenly arisen in the last minute, that the document that summarises the consultation responses to ““Policing in the 21st century”” states clearly on page 13, at paragraph 2.12:"““Whilst the PCC will be able to appoint staff to advise and assist them, all staff must be appointed on merit and will be politically restricted posts.””" [Interruption.] Hon. Members should wait. It goes on to state:"““Party political office holders and active party members will not be able to be appointed to the PCC's staff.””" Our intention is absolutely clear. The running costs and day-to-day expenditure of police and crime commissioners will not be any greater than that of police authorities.