Tim De Meyer reappointed to Sentencing Council

The Lord Chancellor has officially announced the reappointment of Tim De Meyer as the policing member of the Sentencing Council, effective from 1 July 2026 until the earlier of the appointment of his successor or 30 June 2027. This decision was made without competition, following consultations with the Commissioner for Public Appointments. The aim of this approach is to maintain essential policing expertise on the Council while a full recruitment exercise is underway.

Tim De Meyer brings with him 28 years of extensive experience in policing, having held various operational and strategic roles. His career includes notable service in both the Metropolitan Police and Thames Valley Police. In 2023, he took on the role of Chief Constable of Surrey Police. Since 2019, he has contributed to national policy and practice as the National Police Chiefs’ Council portfolio lead for Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act Disclosure and has played a vital role in the Criminal Justice Coordination Committee.

In terms of political activity, Tim has declared no involvement, ensuring that his focus remains solely on his policing duties and the responsibilities of his position on the Sentencing Council. The Council itself was established to enhance transparency and consistency in sentencing while upholding judicial independence. Its primary function is to issue guidelines on sentencing, which courts are generally required to follow unless it would not serve the interests of justice.

The appointment of non-judicial members of the Sentencing Council is overseen by the Commissioner for Public Appointments, in line with the Cabinet Office Governance Code on Public Appointments. This framework aims to ensure that appointments are made fairly and transparently, reinforcing the integrity of the Sentencing Council’s work within the justice system.

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