Neighbourhood Policing: West Midlands

Commended the debate's importance for his constituents and highlighted issues such as gangs with weapons in Birmingham. He emphasised that police were unable to attend due to insufficient numbers, leading to fears among residents who wish to open businesses or improve their lives. The Minister did not clarify the point about the management of West Midlands police. The force is good at strategic planning, organisational management and providing value for money, according to Her Majesty's inspectorate of constabulary and fire and rescue services.

Mr Longhi highlighted the recruitment of 11,053 additional police officers by the Government and a 5.8% increase in West Midlands Police's budget to £36 million. He criticised the Labour PCC for closing numerous police stations and spending heavily on refurbishing offices at Lloyd House. Mr Longhi expressed frustration over the delayed promise of a new police station in Dudley, noting that Dudley residents have been without a central police station since late 2017. Dudley Council is ready to sell the land if the police and crime commissioner signs the contract, and planning permission does not depend on property ownership. He suggests speeding up local decision-making processes.

The west midlands is experiencing a rise in serious violence and other crimes due to cuts in policing, youth services, drug addiction support, and services for children with special educational needs. The force will be 1,000 officers short compared to 2010 levels despite the government's pledge of more police funding.

I hear from constituents that the small number of prosecutions for burglary and car theft is frustrating. I argue that falling police numbers contribute to this problem. Even with promised funding restoration, there will still be 1,000 fewer officers in the west midlands compared to 2010. There is an unfair formula driving up council tax and giving us a smaller share of Government grant than neighbouring areas like Warwickshire.

Mr Ali highlighted the success of a recent police operation in Sparkbrook, emphasising the importance of partnership between local councils and police. He noted that despite this success, resources are stretched thin due to austerity measures and an increase in complex crimes. Mr Ali urged the Government to allocate more funds for neighbourhood policing to address community issues. £175 million has been cut from west midlands policing since 2010, resulting in a deficit of 1,600 officers on the street. The government needs to explain this shortfall.

Over a decade of Conservative budget cuts have severely impacted neighbourhood policing in the west midlands, with crime rates rising by 21% overall and 41% for violent crimes. The number of police community support officers has been cut in half, leaving residents like Maureen Crealey feeling unsafe and abandoned. Taiwo Owatemi called for more funding to restore neighbourhood policing and strengthen youth services.

Ms Vaz briefly intervened, asking if she could speak next.