British Labour politician, Alison Lowe who made history as the first black female councillor in Leeds in 1990 is set to be deputy mayor for policing and crime for West Yorkshire, according to reports.
This comes after New West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin gave her nod for the role after taking over policing responsibilities.
Ms Brabin said: “Alison brings a wealth of experience of policing and crime issues to the role and is a passionate champion of inclusion and mental health which we both want to be at the core of policing in West Yorkshire.
“I am looking forward to working with her to deliver my commitments to recruit more police officers and staff and to put keeping women and girls safe at the heart of my policing plan.”
Lowe who represented Armley on Leeds City Council from 1990 – 2019 after stepping down is currently CEO of mental health charity Touchstone. She is former chairwoman of the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Panel.
In reaction, Ms. Lowe said she is “very proud” to be recommended for the post.
“I am very proud to be put forward as the first deputy mayor for policing and crime in West Yorkshire and share the mayor’s determination that the voices of all our communities are heard.
“Making sure our communities are safe and inclusive is key to ensuring our region is one that delivers better lives for all and I am excited about getting to work on this important agenda.”
The Police and Crime Panel will consider her candidacy at a meeting on 18 June, after which Lowe is expected to take up the role in August.
Lowe won the 2014 Forward Business Woman of the Year award and Stonewall Senior Champion of the Year in 2015.
