PCC wants to hear from residents on proposed increase to policing precept
A public consultation about a proposed increase in the policing part of council tax has reached the halfway point.
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, is consulting on a proposal to increase the policing part of council tax for 2018-19 by a pound a month for the average band D household. Currently the average band D household contributes £14.19 per month to local policing, but if residents back the proposal then this would rise to £15.19 per month.
Angus Macpherson said, “As a Force, Wiltshire Police has seen the second highest change in the country in emergency incidents when comparing 2015/16 with 2016/17, yet the funding we receive from central government doesn’t recognise the increasing pressures we face in Wiltshire. In fact we receive the fourth lowest funding per head of population in England and Wales.”
Since 2010, in real terms Wiltshire Police has received £19 million less from central funding to police the area, but has been responding to more crimes and supporting more members of the public year on year.
Mr Macpherson added, “Whilst we live in an incredibly safe county, there’s only so far the budget will stretch and we’re streamlining our services to ensure they’re as efficient as possible at the same time as keeping the public safe, but we are feeling the squeeze more than ever. Without this increase Wiltshire Police will have to look at further reductions in officers and staff to close a budget gap of around £3m. That’s why I’m asking whether residents in Wiltshire and Swindon would be prepared to pay an extra £1 a month to help bridge this gap. This increase will mean that I can protect frontline services from further reductions and maintain the current level of service.”
The consultation runs until 31st January 2018 and wants to hear your views on the proposed increase.
For more information on how to share your views please visit www.wiltshire-pcc.gov.uk, you can also email pcc@wiltshire.pcc.pnn.gov.uk or use #AskAngusPCC on social media.
The Police and Crime Commissioner will also be hosting a live Q&A via social media and phone on Wednesday 17 January between 5-7pm.
KEEVIL VILLAGE 