The Tory Government has broken its pledge to protect police funding - Abbott

Diane Abbott MP, Labour's Shadow Home Secretary, speaking in response to publication of the Police grant report, said:

"The Tory Government has broken its pledge to protect police funding. There is no extra cash at all, and with inflation this means there is a cut in real terms.

"It is an extraordinary decision in light of the recent rising crime statistics and widespread reports from Chief Constables that they are forced to downgrade certain crimes because they are so over-stretched. The attempt to focus on police reserves is a red herring. No-one can rely on reserves to fund day-to-day expenditure for long.

“The Tories have slashed police numbers and underfunded forces. Labour in government will increase police numbers and give forces the resources they need."

Ends

Notes to editors

• ·         Police Funding:Written statement - HCWS439 http://www.parliament.uk/business/publications/written-questions-answers-statements/written-statement/Commons/2018-01-31/HCWS439