When David Cameron first introduced the concept of a Police and Crime Commissioner into our nation he did so explaining that what was needed were people from outside of politics who were Independent in the same was as Police Forces are Independent of Politics. Then his corruption broke through and he agreed for Conservatives to stand for the elections and a few days later Labour took the same approach. In the first round of PCCs nearly 1/3 were Independent and now less than 10% are Independent. One of the best PCCs is Martin Surl who I have met a long time ago when I was planning to stand as an Independent PCC. He was successful in 2012 and also in 2016 and as the former High Sheriff of Gloucester is making clear, he is standing again in 2021. However sadly at least one of the other Independents is stepping down (Martyn Underhill from Dorset) and so we need to find a way for the origins of these roles to be promoted across the nation. Perhaps all former High Sheriffs could help along with many of us who believe that Independence in the Police and Crime sections is essential.