New Appointment to the Sentencing Council
The Lord Chancellor has officially sanctioned the appointment of Tim De Meyer as the Policing Member of the Sentencing Council, a position he will hold for a three-year term commencing on 1 October 2026.
Tim De Meyer: A Wealth of Experience
Tim De Meyer brings with him an impressive 29 years of experience in policing, having undertaken various operational and strategic roles throughout his career. His professional journey includes significant service with both the Metropolitan Police and Thames Valley Police. In 2023, he ascended to the role of Chief Constable of Surrey Police, further solidifying his leadership credentials within the police force.
Since 2019, De Meyer has been the National Police Chiefs’ Council portfolio lead for the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act Disclosure, where he has played a crucial role in shaping national policy and practice. His contributions to the Criminal Justice Coordination Committee have been instrumental in enhancing the framework of criminal justice across the country.
Political Neutrality and Council Objectives
In line with his new role, Tim De Meyer has declared that he has no political affiliations, ensuring that his focus remains on the principles of justice and transparency.
The Sentencing Council for England and Wales was established with the aim of fostering greater clarity and consistency in sentencing while upholding the independence of the judiciary. A key responsibility of the council is to develop guidelines on sentencing that the courts are expected to adhere to, barring circumstances where deviating from these guidelines serves the interests of justice.
Regulatory Framework for Appointments
The appointment of non-judicial members to the Sentencing Council is subject to oversight by the Commissioner for Public Appointments. The recruitment process adheres strictly to the Cabinet Office Governance Code on Public Appointments, ensuring a transparent and fair selection process.