Conor McGinn MP has raised concerns over the impact that cuts to police budgets have had on the morale of police officers.
Speaking in Parliament, McGinn noted that a survey towards the end of last year undertaken by the Police Federation found that more than three-quarters of police officers suffered from low morale and did not feel valued.
As a result of the latest Police Grant Settlement many police forces will now have to find further savings. Merseyside Police force alone is set to face a budget deficit of хЃ5.4 million in 2016/2017.
CommentingхЪConor said:
“Police officers in Merseyside and across the UK play a vital role in keeping our communities safe, often putting their own personal safety at risk.
“Research by the Police Federation that shows over three-quarters of officers do not feel valued and suffer from low morale is seriously worrying.
“The huge cuts to police budgets by this Tory government are not only affecting the ability of forces to operate, but are also having a detrimental impact on police officers as they come under increasing pressure.
“The Tories recent blunder on police grants means that unfortunately the problem is likely to be exacerbated as forces are required to make further savings.
“It’s high time the Government treated our men and women police officers with the respect they deserve, ensuring our forces are properly funded and looking after the welfare of those who serve our community.”