PCC Raises Concerns Over ‘Postcode Lottery’ in Police Funding

Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Lisa Townsend has indicated that the current “postcode lottery” system for police funding might compel residents to bear a greater financial burden. The PCC expressed apprehension that increased contributions from taxpayers to policing would become unavoidable. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper declared her intention to abolish the “postcode lottery in policing” during a speech delivered to local PCCs and police chiefs on November 19. She confirmed that central government funding for police would increase by approximately £500 million next year, with a detailed breakdown of funding allocations for each force slated for publication in mid-December. Surrey’s Commissioner voiced concerns that funds would be unfairly distributed within Surrey, citing the government’s police funding formula as “not fit for purpose.” She stated: “There’s an idea that Surrey is wealthy, but Surrey Police isn’t.” The method of dividing funds among police forces results in some areas receiving a significantly larger share than others. For example, the money allocated to Surrey covers only 45% of its total budget, while other areas like Northumbria receive 80%. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Surrey Police must either save or cut £23.4 million over the next four years to maintain its current service. Ms. Townsend affirmed her desire not to alter Surrey Police’s service in a way that would negatively affect residents. She commented: “What we’re not clear on is what else the government wants us to cut.” The PCC conveyed a lack of optimism about Surrey securing additional funding from the new government, despite the county having received an extra £17.3 million last year. Ms. Townsend added: “We’ve got nobody making the case for us,” noting: “we’ve got no Labour MPs or Labour councils.” A Home Office spokesperson stated: “The Government will fully compensate police forces for the impact of the changes to National Insurance Employer contributions.” They further added: “Details on the allocation of this funding will be confirmed at the provisional police settlement in mid-December.” For further updates, BBC Surrey can be followed on Facebook and X. Story ideas may be submitted via email to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or by WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.