Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Policing in Devon and Cornwall

06 July 2020 · 4 other contributors

Opened by Steve Double Con St Austell and Newquay

Policing & Resources

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Steve Double raised concerns about policing in devon and cornwall in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Steve Double highlighted the exceptional work of Devon and Cornwall Police in managing pandemic challenges and addressing rural policing issues.
  • Kit Malthouse acknowledged the commendable work of Devon and Cornwall Police, noting significant funding increases to 338.4 million for the current year.
  • The Minister mentioned ongoing recruitment efforts, with 141 new police officers allocated, of which 61 have already been recruited.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Steve Double Con St Austell and Newquay

Steve Double highlighted the exceptional work of Devon and Cornwall police in managing unprecedented challenges brought on by the pandemic, as well as addressing long-standing issues related to rural policing. He praised the proactive but sensible approach taken during the pandemic, acknowledging the high number of fixed penalty notices issued while maintaining public support and respect. Steve noted that despite lower than average funding per person (52p compared to 61p national average), Devon and Cornwall remains one of the safest regions with the lowest victim-based crime rate nationally. He also stressed the unique challenges posed by tourism, vast rural areas, long coastlines, high road miles, and isolated locations, which intensify operational demands throughout the year. Steve Double requested a more accurate funding formula reflecting these factors and called for better allocation of new police officers based on overall service needs rather than crime levels alone.

Other contributors (4)
  • Neil Parish Con Tiverton and Honiton

    Endorsed the proactive approach taken by Devon and Cornwall Police during the pandemic and emphasised the need for tourists to behave well.

  • Simon Jupp Lib Dem East Devon

    Acknowledged the investment in new police headquarters but stressed the ongoing need for more local policing due to geographical constraints.

  • Selaine Saxby Labour Co-op North Devon

    Agreed with Steve Double's points and highlighted the unique challenges of rural policing, emphasising the importance of sustainable solutions beyond borrowing from other forces.

  • Anthony Mangnall Con West Penwith

    Supported the councillor advocate scheme initiated by the police and crime commissioner to enhance community support for police efforts in eradicating crime.

Government Response

Kit Malthouse

Kit Malthouse acknowledged the commendable work of Devon and Cornwall Police during the pandemic, praising Shaun Sawyer's leadership and the force's resilience. He noted significant funding increases to £338.4 million for the current year, including an allocation of 141 new police officers (61 already recruited). The Minister emphasised ongoing recruitment efforts despite the pandemic using virtual assessment centres. Future allocations were discussed, with a hope for clarity before the summer recess. Malthouse highlighted the economic impact of tourism loss and praised Devon and Cornwall's approach to managing tourist influx safely. He committed to addressing rural crime through resource allocation in the manifesto and emphasised tackling serious issues like county lines drug trade and murder prevention. The Minister also mentioned initiatives such as the safer streets fund targeting acquisitive crimes and recognised Devon and Cornwall’s leadership on modern slavery. Malthouse concluded by praising the force's innovative spirit.

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