Police officers fear crime surge if planned government cuts to the police budget go ahead

Cambridgeshire police officers fear crime surge

By DAVID BLACKMORe Monday, May 16, 2011
12:01 AM

Police officers in Cambridgeshire fear budget cuts will result in poor public service and increased crime, a survey released today has revealed.

Almost every officer from the force who responded to the Police Federation survey said that morale has fallen because of the planned government cut of 20pc to the police budget over the next four years.

The officers were also concerned about the possibility of a reduction in police officer numbers, possible changes to their terms and conditions, and how this will all impact upon the service they are able to give to the public.

In addition, more than 80pc of the officers believe cutting police officer numbers in Cambridgeshire will have a detrimental effect on crime levels.

Shaun Ryan, chair of Cambridgeshire Police Federation, said: “The message from police officers in Cambridgeshire is loud and clear.

“They feel they are being hit from all sides by this government who, in addition to attacking their terms and conditions, are imposing a 20 percent cut on the service which will undoubtedly lead to increased levels of crime and a poorer service for the public in Cambridgeshire.”

He added: “The Federation is not opposed to change and accept that policing must play its part in public sector cuts.

“However, cuts of this magnitude are criminal and, despite the very best efforts of ranks and file police officers, will undoubtedly lead to a poorer service for the residents and businesses in Cambridgeshire.

“That is why it is imperative that those who live and work in Cambridgeshire make clear to our local politicians that a cut of this magnitude to the police budget needs to be urgently reconsidered by the government before it is too late.”