Conservative Police & Crime Commissioner Shortlist

A shortlist has been chosen of six Conservatives hoping to become the party's new Police Commissioner candidate for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

In a move that is unique for the party nationally, the public will have a chance to choose the top two candidates from the six during a public meeting next month.

Those final two will then go forward for party members to decide who will be the candidate in the election for the brand new role to be held on 15th November this year.

The shortlist of six is:
Roger Ainsley, a Rear Admiral in the Royal Navy from Southsea in Portsmouth.

Christopher Brannigan, a Lieutenant Colonel in the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards from Winchester.

Donna Jones, a magistrate and Portsmouth City Councillor from Cosham in Portsmouth.

Melville Kendall, a private investment consultant and executive member of Hampshire County Council from Milford on Sea, nr Lymington.

Michael Mates, a former Member of Parliament in Hampshire for 36 years from Winchester.

Sean Woodward, the leader of Fareham Borough Council and a businessman from Whiteley in Hampshire.

Tory co-ordinator for the process, Meon Valley MP George Hollingbery, said: "We really didn't just want party members to make all the decisions as the police commissioner is an important and high-profile role, so we decided that a public vote was a good idea.

"I hope many people will turn up in Fareham on 16th June to hear what the candidates have to say and cast their vote.

"This is an excellent crop of candidates with a wealth of experience to bring to the role and all would make great commissioners. I wish them all the best of luck."