Lincolnshire PCC asks for public’s policing priorities in budget consultation

Lincolnshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has urged residents to take part in a public consultation outlining their policing priorities for the upcoming year.

Alan Hardwick has launched the budget consultation following the announcement of the money the force will receive from central government for 2016/17.

Lincolnshire Police will receive a total grant of £65,561,535 from the Home Office.

The figure is a reduction of approximately £400,000 on the funds the force received this year.

Now, the PCC is asking for suggestions from members of the public as he sets the overall budget for the county’s policing.

Residents can complete the consultation which ends on January 16 here.

PCC Alan Hardwick said: “It is no secret, indeed even government now acknowledge it, that Lincolnshire has been treated unfairly in the past in terms of central government police funding.

“Our overall funding position means we remain one of the lowest spending forces per head of population in England and Wales but despite this have enviable performance.

“The Chief Constable and I have worked tirelessly over the last year to convince government to reform the outdated, unfair and opaque police funding arrangements and ensure that finally we achieve a fair deal for Lincolnshire. Thanks to our positive and productive conversations, government agreed to do so.

“Then, just a few weeks ago, the Minister of State announced there would be a one year delay in implementing the new funding arrangements. As a result government have applied, yet again, a formula that they themselves acknowledge is not fit for purpose.

“I raise around 40% of the costs of policing in Lincolnshire from the council tax precept. This is above the national average.

“I do not wish to place a greater burden on the taxpayers of this county. However, I also have a duty to maintain efficient and effective police services in Lincolnshire and must have regard to the Chief Constable’s advice about the resources he needs to keep our communities safe.

“In setting my budget I must consider these duties alongside the level of central government grant and what it is fair to raise through the precept.

“Your views are essential, not just in assisting me in setting my budget but also to inform the ongoing conversations I and the Chief Constable are having with government.

“We will continue to work positively with government to deliver a fair deal for Lincolnshire in the new funding formula when it is introduced.”