Wiltshire Police, who are proposing a council tax increase of £3.15 later this month have challenged an article on the BBC’s website revealing reductions in police officer numbers across the country.
The force, which is seeking additional funding following the Chancellor’s £25 million cuts in Government spending, has issued a special statement to clarify the fact that it is losing some officers and possibly some management posts too.
“We are not talking about cutting 173 police officers, I budgeted for 1,062 last year in line with my police and crime plan,” declares Angus Macpherson, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire.
“Since then 29 police officer posts have been freed-up for frontline policing through regional efficiencies – roads policing, firearms and dogs – through working collaboratively with Avon and Somerset and Gloucestershire forces.
“That takes the number of police officers to 1,033. Furthermore an on-going review and other efficiencies will mean a further reduction of management posts.”
And he adds: “I am sure this, combined with future collaboration will take us very close to an establishment of about 1,000 police officers.
“I am committed to preserving the number of officers on the frontline — neighbourhood and response — and continue to have complete confidence that the Chief Constable will continue to keep Wiltshire safe.”
Krumbz open for business in spite of getting flooded yet again
