RETIRED Cardiff businessman Antonio (Tony) Verderame is to stand as a candidate in the election for the South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).
He will stand against current Penarth MP Alun Michael, who is a Labour's candidate for the November election. Falklands War veteran Simon Weston, who was also set to stand, has pulled out of the race saying it had become too 'political'.
Mr Verderame's career has taken in electronics/mechanical engineering, running a hotel, working for Fiat and Alpha Romeo, as well as the Ministry of Transport. He is currently Chair of the Cardiff Older Persons Forum, and of the South Wales Forum chair network.
Working closely with Cardiff Police, he initiated the Verderame Foundation to help prevent crimes against the elderly and vulnerable, and in 2007 he received a Queen's Award.
"The Police must be dedicated to the service of the public, and not become the tools of politicians or civil servants," said Mr Verderame.
"They should be alert to the needs and concerns of the public, and should not allow themselves to become involved in politics."
* The overall responsibility of the Police and Crime Commissioner will be 'to maintain an effective and efficient police service by holding the Chief Constable to account'. They will play a leading role in community safety and crime reduction. Other responsibilities will include appointing and, if necessary, dismissing the Chief Constable; setting policing priorities and producing an Annual Plan; setting the annual police budget and council tax precept; publishing an Annual Report and Accounts; and consulting with and involving the public. The Commissioner will also be responsible for local police funding.