Overview
- The Police Leadership Commission published its report on Monday, July 6, 2026, saying policing in England and Wales needs a fundamental overhaul and an 'ethical reset'.
- The review documents 47 investigations into alleged misconduct involving chief officers since 2018 and says eight current or former chief constables are under investigation or awaiting disciplinary action.
- Inspectors cited by the commission found none of the 43 forces rated outstanding for leadership, with nearly one-third requiring improvement and two forces judged inadequate, and the commission highlighted that almost a third of officers have under five years' service.
- The commission recommends nationally accredited recruitment and training, a new senior constable rank to retain frontline experience, replacement of the sergeant exam with a formal qualification, and a National Academy of Police Leadership to rebuild the pipeline for senior officers.
- The Home Office says it will use the findings to shape a wider police reform programme and publish a formal response this autumn, a process that could trigger funding decisions, contested political debate and changes to promotion and professional development across forces.