SURREY Police will not have a permanent chief constable until after the police and crime commissioner election in May.

Surrey’s current PCC Kevin Hurley, who would normally appoint the new police chief, has decided to postpone the process in the interests of “democracy and fairness”.

Mr Hurley, who is standing for re-election after completing his first four-year term, said: “It is important the PCC elected by the public in May is able to appoint a chief constable of their choice. I do not want to fetter their ability to do so by beginning a recruitment process so close to the elections.”

Chief Constable Lynne Owens is leaving the force in early 2016 to take up a new role as director general of the National Crime Agency – with Deputy Chief Constable Nick Ephgrave set to take on the role temporarily.

But it means Surrey Police will be left without a permanent chief at a time when it is facing severe budget pressures as well as criticism by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) for its “inadequate” protection of the vulnerable.

As reported in last week’s Herald, because of the “serious concern” arising from its inspection of child protection in June, HMIC has asked Surrey Police to provide evidence it has made progress in making vital improvements by January 31.

Ms Owens is overseeing the investment of an extra £4.9 million to protect the vulnerable and ensure Surrey Police’s response to victims of sexual offences, domestic abuse and child abuse continues to improve.

But Mr Hurley said he had “every confidence” in Mr Ephgrave’s ability to pick up where she leaves off and lead the force until a permanent appointment is made.

Mr Hurley added: “The recruitment process is a protracted one which involves convening an independent panel, holding interviews and finally a confirmation hearing with the police and crime panel.

“It is also a critically important process as Surrey Police will need the very best person to see the force through a period of significant change in a climate of financial challenge.”