Police Funding 2023-09-06
2023-09-06
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Police Service of Northern Ireland faces significant budgetary pressures that could result in the loss of more than 1,000 officers by 2025. The force is already understaffed, and a recent data leak has further exacerbated security concerns.
What recent discussions have been held with the Police Service of Northern Ireland on the potential impact of changes in funding levels for policing in Northern Ireland on crime? What steps are being taken to ease these budgetary pressures during this challenging period?
Discussions have been held regarding the funding issue. The Department of Justice has a total allocation of £1.2 billion for 2023-24, with additional UK contributions to counter-terrorism efforts through the additional security funding programme.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about easing budgetary pressures was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Police Service of Northern Ireland is facing severe budgetary pressures, with the risk of losing more than 1,000 officers by 2025. These issues are compounded by a recent data leak that has undermined morale.
With the force at lower-than-ideal numbers and the recent data leak likely to have an impact, what discussions is the Secretary of State having with the Department of Justice in Northern Ireland and the PSNI about how these pressures can be eased during this difficult time?
I had a number of conversations with the former chief constable. The UK Government provides additional funding for counter-terrorism work through the additional security funding programme, contributing £32 million in 2022-23.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about easing budgetary pressures was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
A data breach involving the Police Service of Northern Ireland has raised concerns about national security, particularly for officers working with counter-terrorism and intelligence units.
Will he assure the House that whatever resources are required by the PSNI, not only to fulfil its function but to protect its own officers and staff, will be made available?
The Government supports the PSNI in responding to the data breach. The focus remains on providing specialist support and expertise from across government.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about necessary resources was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
A data breach has caused a loss of confidence within the Police Service of Northern Ireland, particularly regarding leadership and management.
Does he agree that perhaps what we need now is for someone with experience and leadership credentials to be brought in as an interim chief constable to take control of this situation?
The senior management team is strong and effective. The Policing Board has launched a review into its operations, and questions are being asked about potential actions.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about an interim leader was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
A recent data breach has raised concerns about the safety and morale of police in Northern Ireland, particularly those involved with counter-terrorism.
Can he assure me that he will do all he can to deliver safety equipment, protection, and security for those who are feeling most vulnerable at this time?
I will continue to work closely with the senior leadership team to ensure that officers receive full Government support in responding to the data breach. The focus remains on providing specialist support from across government.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about safety equipment and protection was not directly addressed.
Response accuracy