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Police Grant Report
08 February 2023
Lead MP
Richard Fuller
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Policing & Resources
Other Contributors: 4
At a Glance
Richard Fuller raised concerns about police grant report in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The debate focuses on the disparity in police funding across different areas of England, with particular emphasis on Bedfordshire. Richard Fuller highlights that Bedfordshire receives significantly less per capita funding compared to other regions such as Merseyside and Durham (£203 vs £290). He also discusses the importance of special grants for Bedfordshire's policing needs, which differ from those of other areas. Additionally, he addresses concerns about balancing new and experienced officers within the force.
Sarah Jones
Lab
Croydon West
Sarah Jones acknowledges the contributions made by various Members regarding police funding issues. She emphasises that Labour is committed to putting 13,000 officers and PCSOs on the streets funded from procurement savings of £350 million. She criticises the Government's economic policies for burdening local taxpayers through council tax hikes while cutting public services and failing to address inflation.
The Government are increasing total funding for policing by up to £287 million, providing forces with an increase of up to £523 million and committing £1.1 billion on national policing priorities. This will enable the police to maximise the value of the uplift, cut crime across the country, and increase confidence in the criminal justice system by putting victims first. The Government have allocated funding for the recruitment of 20,000 additional officers by March 2023, with 84% already recruited as of December 2022. Additionally, police and crime commissioners (PCCs) have been given flexibility to raise council tax contributions for policing without needing a local referendum.
Jones
Lab
North Durham
The right hon. Member raised various issues at length but was described as using a teasing tone with the Policing Minister, highlighting concerns within his party and discussing the difficulties they face.
Carmarthen East and Dinefwr
The hon. Member pontificated at length but was criticised for focusing on issues within his own party rather than addressing substantive concerns regarding policing funding.
Government Response
The Government are increasing total funding for policing by up to £287 million, providing forces with an increase of up to £523 million and committing £1.1 billion on national policing priorities. This includes support for counter-terrorism policing worth more than £1 billion. The police funding settlement offers additional investment from central government for forces to maintain the 20,000 officer uplift, as well as precept flexibility for PCCs in England to support their local policing priorities.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.