ROGER Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, has commented on the Comprehensive Spending Review announced today by the Government.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “Today’s Comprehensive Spending Review has proved disappointing.

“Working these figures through for Essex Police this settlement does not fully cover our existing projected deficit and the likely pay settlement for the current year.

“Our public want us to continue to reduce crime in Essex. To do so our police must maintain current strength, which means pay settlements and contractual increments must be funded. Essex Police has a strong record of finding efficiencies and will have to do so again. And again we will have to rely on local council taxpayers. This settlement will not provide the additional officers or investment in technology which we would need to deliver on the Government’s Safer Streets Mission.

“The Comprehensive Spending Review has not funded the financial reality facing Essex Police and it has not even mentioned the fire and rescue sector. We urge the Government to confirm the funding arrangements for fire and rescue services as soon as possible to ensure we have opportunity to consider impacts and make decisions.

“We will continue to work with partners to provide effective and efficient policing and fire and rescue services in Essex, but tough decisions will have to be made.”