Back in July I wrote to the Leader of the Wolverhampton City Council and The Police and Crime Commissioner, setting out in very strong detail, the concerns I have for Neighbourhood Policing in Wednesfield North and within the City of Wolverhampton.
They were very strong and forthright views I sent. That is why I am pleased to receive the following briefing note from the PCC just a few days ago. On the 14th August 2017 – The Police and Crime Commissioner distributed his briefing note to Councillors.
It was headed –
Taking the fight for funds to Westminster – He says in this note that – “Here in the West Midlands we have watched as our policing budget has been slashed by central government to the tune of £145 million over the last 7 years. It means we’ve lost nearly 2000 officers. Many, including me, say enough is enough.
That’s why I decided to use the Annual General meeting of Police and Crime Commissioners in London to press Government Minister Nick Hurd over funding for policing in our region. This was a question and answer session with the newly appointed Minister of Policing and Fire and I had plenty to ask.
It’s a well-known fact urban forces, with bigger populations, suffer from higher crime rates. That’s why I pressed him on ensuring money for police forces is distributed more fairly.
Demands on West Midlands Police have been particularly high in recent months after an increase in terror threats, cyber and knife crime nationally. During the Manchester terror attacks our officers were deployed to assist local efforts in maintaining security in the North West.
We didn’t hesitate in helping our friends. But co-operation of this sort, whilst vital, stretches policing around the country.
That’s why I also called on Mr Hurd to reassure all of us that funding will be available to enable this to continue. I am not alone in my calls for increased funding. Other Police and Crime Commissioners share equal concerns.
Was he listening to us? I hope so.
Mr Hurd appeared to hear the concerns raised on the day. He talked about an increased strain and worry amongst the public regarding the changing nature of crimes. What’s more, he asked all the Commissioners to submit evidence backing up their calls for more money and promised it was something the government was looking closely at. I will be making the case for the West Midlands very strongly indeed.”
Councillor Phil Bateman added…The Minister asked for evidence to back up the call for more resources for West Midlands Police. I believe you the public have that evidence tell me on this page what your real thoughts are on the police? No Swearing! I want to send him your views in a cut and paste….so let’s make your comments trend!
