Support our local police
Yesterday I spoke to the Chief Constable, Simon Ash, to express my support for the police in Suffolk.
What is the point of the Independent Police Arbitration Tribunal if Jacqui Smith, the Home Secretary, refuses to accept its recommendations? The Government has turned its back on what the police force believed was an agreed deal. It is the first time a Government has not accepted the tribunal’s recommendations for 28 years.
It is little wonder that the Police Federation, which represents 140,000 officers in England and Wales and who feel so unappreciated by the Government, have passed a vote of no confidence in the Home Secretary. The total saving to the taxpayer of reneging on the deal is only £30 million; set against the fury it has caused.
At a time when violent crime is spiralling, the bravery and courage of our policemen and women is exceptional. They should be treated fairly, honestly and openly - with the respect they deserve. Instead Jacqui Smith has shown disrespect verging on professional dereliction.
Here in Suffolk, our police; like every where else, are being hamstrung by inordinate red tape and bureaucracy which prevents them from being on the beat.
Police officers have written dozens of letter of complaint to me about their sense of betrayal, which I understand and support.