THE boss of West Yorkshire’s Police Federation has thrown his hat in the ring to become the association’s national leader, vowing to “take the fight to Government”.

Brian Booth, who is the chair of West Yorkshire Police Federation, has announced his candidacy for the role of National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales.

He has vowed to repair the “disconnect” between the national board and its members and promised to put frontline officers first, stand up for officers against criticism in the media, and to “consign the toothless tiger name to history”.

The current national chair is John Apter, who has held the role since August 2018, but was suspended by Hampshire Police and the Police Federation in December after allegations of sexual misconduct emerged.

Announcing his nomination to challenge for the role, Mr Booth said he has “thought long and hard about standing” due to the “significant challenges ahead” and said he had often thought of the role to be a “poisoned chalice”.

He said: “I have spoken to frontline colleagues and fellow chairs, it’s fair to say there remains significant disconnect between members and the national federation.

“Members do not feel listened to.”

He set out a three-point plan for his campaign, the first being listening to members properly, “no longer kicking issues into the long grass”, and holding ballots on serious issues.

He also vowed to “consign the toothless tiger name to history” and said he would lead with “fire in his belly” to fight to get the best deal for officers, adding: “I will not be afraid to take the fight to government.”

He also said he would be on the “front foot” in the media to “stick up” for hard working officers and “highlight the dangers and challenges they face in keeping the public safe”.

He added: “I will be a strong chair who puts members first.”

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