CHESTER’S MP has questioned her own government’s plan to cap the police authority’s budget and called for urgent talks.
Minister of State for Local Government, John Healey, faced a barrage of questions from Christine Russell and other Cheshire MPs when announcing plans to cap Cheshire Police Authority’s share of council tax.
The government is taking action because the 17% precept increase announced by the Authoity far exceeds the government’s 5% limit.
Christine Russell (Lab) said: “Chester has just been named as one of the safest places to live in the UK. That is due in large part to the commitment and effectiveness of Cheshire constabulary, which has made neighbourhood policing a top priority.
“However, Cheshire constabulary probably has the lowest shire county precept.”
In a MORI poll of Cheshire residents, 87% supported an increase of at least £1.50 a month towards increased policing.
With the Authority’s increase the average council tax for policing in Cheshire will be £132, while the national average is £180.
Stephen O’Brien (Eddisbury, Con) said the increase is needed to cope with the county’s rurality and anti-terrorism measures.
He added: “The police authority and the chief constable have said that if they do not manage to secure an increase in funding, neighbourhood policing will have to be the first point for cuts.”
Andrew Miller (Ellesmere Port & Neston, Lab) and Mike Hall (Weaver Vale, Lab) claimed Cheshire has been punished for having an already low precept.
Mr Healey promised to meet a delegation of Cheshire MPs.
