PCC statement on Spending Review

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner said: “I am once again disappointed by the lack of action over the out-of-date and unfair National Funding Formula as part of this Spending Review.

“I understand there are tough decisions the Government must make – we’ve had to make many in Dorset due to years of underfunding – but it is clear that serious and very real concerns from all corners of policing have once again not been heeded by those in power.

“Law and order are the backbone of our society but without significant investment and intervention, policing is at risk in this country and those who will sadly end up paying the price for years of underinvestment, are the public.

“As the second worst funded Force in the country, Dorset’s residents already pay over and above what other areas do for their police force and that is not right. Currently, rurality and seasonality are not considered as part of the funding formula and that must change. I will continue to bang the drum and lobby for the funding formula to be changed to repair this unjust disparity, and I call on all of Dorset’s MPs to make this case as well.

“Fair police funding cannot and must not continue to be at the bottom of priority list. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Dorset Police’s officers, staff and volunteers this area has gone from tenth safest to eighth safest, as the Force delivers for the people of Dorset. It is time for the Government to step up and do the same.”