Private hearing to discuss dismissal of David Crompton

Mr Crompton was suspended in April by the county’s police and crime commissioner Alan Billings for ‘an erosion of public trust and confidence’ in relation to the chief’s handling of the Hillsborough inquests and verdicts.

Mr Crompton, who had previously announced his intention to retire in November, has been suspended on full pay since then.

His replacement Stephen Watson is currently the chief constable on an interim basis, until his predecessor’s fate is dealt with.

A private meeting of the South Yorkshire Police and Crime Panel will now take place to recommend to Dr Billings whether he should call for Mr Crompton’s retirement or resignation.

Dr Billings can then decide whether to accept the panel’s recommendation.

A spokesman for Dr Billings’ office said: “The chief constable must comply with the Police and Crime Commissioner’s decision.”

The date of the meeting is to be fixed by Rotherham Council.

The council hosts the monthly Police and Crime Panel meetings, that are usually open to members of the public to attend.