Surrey’s Police and Crime Panel met today (3rd February) to discuss the 4.3% increase to the policing element of council tax proposed by the Commissioner in consultation with the Chief Constable.
Eight of the panel’s twelve councillors plus one independent member were present for the meeting with four voting in favour of the proposal, one abstaining and the four Liberal Democrat members present voting against.
Speaking after the vote, Lisa said “I was incredibly disappointed to see panel members attempt to politicise this decision which is so important for the continued safety of our county, particularly as this went against the view of the majority of residents who responded.
"I am really grateful to the more than 3,200 residents who took the time to complete my survey on this year’s precept levels, and for the considerable support for policing in Surrey as evidenced by the majority vote to support our police force."
As the panel had insufficient votes to veto the proposal, it will still come into effect, which the Commissioner says will ensure policing teams across Surrey have the funding they need to tackle crimes and issues that matter to residents.
She added “Surrey Police is one of the fastest improving forces in the country, and I am pleased that today’s outcome means that this momentum can continue over the coming year. Over the last 12 months, the charge rate across the force has more than doubled, 2,500 more arrests have been made and an additional 3,500 offences have been prosecuted.
“I am also pleased that there have been dramatic improvements when it comes to tackling offences such as burglary, shop theft, child abuse and rape, all of which are issues that I know matter a great deal to residents."
The Commissioner’s new Police and Crime Plan, which has been developed in consultation with residents and stakeholders from across the county, will soon be launched. The Plan includes a strong focus on a ‘back to basics’ approach to policing which the Commissioner says is based on what the Surrey public want and will see Surrey Police “concentrate on what policing does best…fighting crime, getting tough on offenders, and protecting people”.
Speaking about the Plan, the Commissioner said “I want to ensure Surrey Police has the tools it needs to keep us safe and to deliver for residents, including the priorities included in my new Police and Crime Plan.
“The new Plan, together with council tax funds, will help Surrey Police continue on the improvements it has already made.
“Not all improvements that are needed across our county are down to policing. For example, I know that extended delays in the Criminal Justice System are causing long waiting periods for victims awaiting their cases to come to court.
“This is a concern that was highlighted by a range of residents and partners throughout the consultation for my plan, with partners in particular concerned about additional pressures on services with reduced government or local authority funding.
“That is why I am pleased that Surrey Police and I agreed to use a small proportion of this year’s precept to fund vital and life-changing victim support services and prevention work across the county.”
With this increase the policing element of council tax in Surrey will now be £337.57 for a Band D property, which is an increase of £1.16 per month or £14 annually (approximately 4.3% across all bands).
However, even with this increase, alongside their commitment to continued improvement, over the next 4 years, Surrey Police need to deliver approximately £18 million in savings. The Commissioner has reaffirmed her commitment to continue working closely with the Force to ensure this is achieved and that Surrey Police “provide the best possible value for money for the Surrey taxpayer”.
When talking about deciding on the level to recommend, Lisa said “Asking the public for more money in the current financial climate is one of the toughest calls I have to make as Police and Crime Commissioner for this county, and it is not a decision I take lightly.
“But I know from speaking to residents at our recent Policing Your Community events how much they value that visible policing presence and getting a swift and effective police response when they need it.
“This was echoed in the comments made in our council tax survey, in which 59% of respondents who took part said they would be willing to pay the increase to support our policing teams over the next year.
“I want to thank everyone who took part and shared their views – they are invaluable for shaping our policing strategies going forward.
“Today’s decision will mean our officers and staff will be properly supported to continue to take the fight to criminals and deliver on the priorities in that Plan to make our communities even safer for Surrey residents.”
