"The commissioner will need to challenge the government cuts agenda for policing and work closely with those agencies involved in crime reduction and prevention. It will be vital to ensure that the democratic wishes of local people are taken into account.

"People on Merseyside remember well how some chief Constables have acted in an arrogant and insensitive manner in the past.

"The new commissioner will have to be courageous in defence of community interests and we believe Peter Kilfoyle is uniquely qualified for the job.

"Peter rejects the privatisation of police services and believes that we should maintain our police for our neighbourhoods.

"He has pledged to promote the welfare of people in their communities despite the challenges the police face due to government cuts.

"This job requires someone rooted in our Merseyside community, someone who understands the concerns of Merseyside people and above all someone who will deliver on their promises. That is why Peter has Unison's full support".