G4S police plans collapse (From Watford Observer)

Plans for G4S to take over police services in Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire collapse

9:09am Wednesday 30th January 2013 in News By Mike Wright, Chief Reporter

Plans to outsource large swathes of Hertfordshire’s police force to the company behind the Olympics security fiasco, G4S, have collapsed.

David Lloyd, the Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner confirmed last night negotiations for a deal, which would have seen the security corporation take over services in Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire, have been discontinued.

Councillor Lloyd said: "I have always said that I would make my decision once the evidence was received and assessed. It is now clear that the G4S framework contract through Lincolnshire Police was not suitable for the unique position of the three forces."

G4S was the only company being seriously considered after the three forces decided last year to collectively privatise back-office functions such as HR, finance, ICT, procurement and corporate communications.

However the deal came under intense scrutiny after G4S failed to deliver enough security staff for London Olympics meaning soldiers and police officers - including from Hertfordshire - had to be drafted in to sure up the games.

Following the collapse of the deal Councillor Lloyd said he was still looking press ahead with privatising plans and did not rule out doing future deals with G4S.

He said: "All this means is that we will not be contracting with G4S through this contract. I am already in discussion with other market providers and will continue to talk with G4S about how they can assist policing support services in Hertfordshire.

"My clear position is that all elements of support work will be considered for outsourcing or other use of the market.

"I made my decision based on evidence and on the recommendations from the chief constables. I still believe that substantial elements of policing support services will be best delivered by the private sector and will ensure that this option is immediately pursued. We will now move forward looking at organisational support services, as before."