News from East Midlands Labour

Coaker: Police cuts would be devastating for the East Midlands

Vernon Coaker, Labour’s Police Minister has joined Labour’s Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, in criticising Tory spending plans which would see cuts, equivalent to 231 fewer police officers in the region.

It follows announcements on Monday by David Cameron that he intends to restrict the Home Office budget to a 1 per cent real terms increase for 2009/10, which would require a cut of £160 million in just three months time.

Labour’s Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith said: “David Cameron’s plans for sudden cuts in public spending would be equivalent to slashing the number of police officers in the East Midlands by 231.

“As Home Secretary I know what an important role each of our police officers play in the East Midlands. Labour are committed to maintaining a visible police presence on our streets – since we came to power police numbers are up by more than 14,000 nationwide, alongside nearly 16,000 Community Support Officers.

“Despite talking tough on crime, the David Cameron’s Conservatives have repeatedly voted against Labour’s investment in law and the tough measures Labour has taken to fight crime.”

Vernon Coaker, Labour’s Police Minister echoed Jacqui’s concern: “For the East Midlands this could mean 231 fewer police officers which would be a devastating blow to our region.

“I wonder what Mr Cameron’s colleagues in the East Midlands would say to their constituents to justify these cuts? I urge them to leave our police alone and tell us where their cuts would fall.”

Other news from East Midlands Labour

• New figures reveal Car Srappage Scheme's success in the East Midlands - 15 January 2010
• It would be great to see "football coming home to Nottingham" - 17 December 2009
• Housing projects in the East Midlands short-listed for welcome cash boost - 16 December 2009