Hertfordshire’s police and crime commissioner has welcomed new powers to improve the justice system.

Under new protocols from the Home Office and Ministry of Justice, David Lloyd’s fellow commissioners will play a more central role in setting priorities for their criminal justice boards and how money is spent.

The latest guidance outlines how criminal justice agencies in Hertfordshire and others should collaborate to address matters important to the public through the criminal justice process.

Mr Lloyd will continue to chair the criminal justice board, a partnership of agencies which is made up of councillors, senior police and prison officers, as well as citizens advice, NHS England and probation service representatives.

The board considers ways to improve reporting crime, providing witness and victim support, and court processes in holding offenders to account.

Mr Lloyd said: “I am delighted these protocols are being adopted on a national and local level, it recognises measures we have already put in place in Hertfordshire to improve the justice system.

“When I was chairman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, I led the way for us to have a greater role in the criminal justice arena. It enables us to deliver some real changes for the public.

“It was one of my manifesto pledges and part of my police and crime plan to get all the agencies involved working closer together.

“It brings more efficient and effective justice for witnesses and victims of crime.”

Under the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011, commissioner’s responsibilities include appointing a chief constable, setting police and crime objectives, rehabilitation for offenders and setting a budget.