Government slammed by MP

4:18pm Friday 15th December 2006

YEOVIL MP David Laws has criticised the Government's decision to cut funding for Police Community Support Officers which will result in a reduction of 195 in the Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

Mr Laws has written to the Home Secretary, John Reid, calling on him to restore the original plans for extra PCSOs.

David Laws said: "Further to the Government's announcement that they were withdrawing funding for plans to increase the numbers of PCSOs nationwide, it has been confirmed that this will mean a reduction of 195 in Avon and Somerset Constabulary.

"This is very disappointing news for the police as it will mean less officers on the beat.

"Our police force has found PCSOs the ideal compliment to regular officers in delivering services in the community and a reduction will leave a gaping hole in the constabulary's plans.

"I have written to the Home Secretary, John Reid, asking him to reconsider his position in light of the relative under-funding of Avon and Somerset Constabulary and the important role PCSOs play in our area."