Police Information

Increase in Police numbers welcomed.

Mon, May 07, 2001

Source: A.P.A.

The Association of Police Authorities applauds new figures.

 

Police authority leaders welcomed publication of new government figures showing an increase in the number of police officers.

Commenting on the figures Dr Ruth Henig, Chairman of the Association of Police Authorities said:

“This is excellent news and confirms that we have turned the corner on police recruitment.  The increase of nearly 1,400 police officers since April last year is a good achievement and the result of very close working between the Home Office and police service.  The projections for the next three years are also highly encouraging, with record numbers projected by March 2003.   Police authorities will continue their work to ensure that police officers are able to use their time efficiently and effectively in the fight against crime and that they have the backup and technical support they need.” 

Police authorities are the pivotal link between police forces and the communities they serve. They consult widely before mapping out the strategic direction for policing locally. 

Dr Henig added:  “The message police authorities have received from communities up and down the country has been very clear – a call for an increased policing presence on the streets.   Today’s announcement will help kick start the process of reassurance.  Police authorities are committed to doing everything they can to ensure that the expectations of individual communities of the policing service they need are both understood and met.”