Sir Hugh Orde, President of the Association of Chief Police Officers said:

"Sir Norman Bettison has given nearly 40 years of his life to public service, during which his contribution at both local and national level has helped keep citizens safe and deliver better policing. As he has pointed out, there is a due process to deal with allegations, including those made from the floor of the House, through the IPCC and criminal law.

"West Yorkshire Police Authority have today recognised Sir Norman's contribution, and it is in keeping with that record that his decision to step aside is made with the best interests of policing in West Yorkshire in mind."