Reform UK police commissioner cancels national theatre tour
Colin Sutton, the police and crime commissioner (PCC) for Norfolk, has cancelled a planned national theatre tour after facing significant backlash, reports BritPanorama.
Elected to his role in July 2021, Sutton had intended to travel across the UK in 2027 for a live stage production titled The Makings Of A Murderer – Double Jeopardy. The tour was set to encompass 130 performances over 11 months.
Despite initial justifications for the project, including his claim that his performances would not interfere with his responsibilities as PCC, public criticism grew. Sutton stated, “Am I not entitled to spend my spare time as I wish?” However, local leaders voiced concerns about the implications of his involvement in such an extensive tour.
Among critics was Labour MP Ben Goldsborough, who expressed that “you can’t police a county from the back of a tour bus.” During a scrutiny committee meeting with the North Norfolk District Council, Sutton announced his decision to pull out of the venture, citing feedback from residents as a significant factor.
He remarked, “What surprised me and what made me reflect and think again was the reaction that I got personally from a number of residents.” While he acknowledged the tour’s scale was excessive, noting, “I could have done some,” he ultimately decided against proceeding, commenting on his commitment to the role.
Sutton, who has a 30-year history in law enforcement, notably led the investigation that resulted in the conviction of serial killer Levi Bellfield. As PCC, he earns an annual salary of £79,052. The backdrop of his decision occurs within a wider context, as the government announced in 2025 the scrapping of the PCC role, with plans set for implementation in 2028 to save at least £100 million.
This cancellation reflects the delicate balance PCCs must navigate between public perception and personal ambition, highlighting the importance of accountability in local governance.
