PCC puts deputy plans on standby

Devon and Cornwall police and crime commissioner (PCC) Alison Hernandez has decided to respect the decision of the police and crime panel after it refused to confirm her preferred candidate as a deputy PCC. Ms Hernandez wanted Mark Kingscote, a 55-year-old NHS support worker who specialises in mental health, to become her deputy. However, the panel said Mr Kingscote “does not meet the minimum requirements of the post”, adding that the attempted appointment “smacked of nepotism”. Councillor Tom Wright also accused him of using derogatory language towards lesbians on social media two years ago. Mr Kingscote said he regretted the tweet, and promised to make mental health matters a priority if he is appointed. “I am disappointed that the panel did not feel able to support my choice of deputy but I am willing to accept its recommendation,” Ms Hernandez said. “I will now spend some time contemplating my next move and will await the appointment of a new chief executive before making a decision. “I would like to thank Mark Kingscote for being willing to consider taking on this challenge on behalf of the people of Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and I believe he would have served the people of our counties and islands well.”