SURREY county councillors have restated their backing for Surrey Police's argument that both the force and the people of Surrey deserve a fairer funding settlement from the Government. A motion tabled by Christine Stevens, executive member for safer and stronger communities, has been passed unanimously by the county council. Mrs Stevens commented: "Surrey Police have an impressive record in making Surrey one of the safest counties in the UK, despite receiving one of the lowest levels of Government grant. "They have managed this whilst also making considerable efficiency savings, which has provided headroom to address new demands on them, such as the increased terrorist threat and the increased risk of flooding. "In spite of being hit with a £1m bill after the Home Office changed their minds, with regard to a proposed merger with Sussex Police, Surrey Police continue to do a first rate job. "Unfortunately the Government have chosen to reward this record of success by failing to provide Surrey Police with adequate resources, and we wants to ensure that they understand the consequences as we seek a fair deal". Margaret Hicks, who seconded the motion and is also a member of Surrey Police Authority, said that Surrey deserved better. "As a large and diverse county bordering London, Surrey has particular pressures that are not fairly reflected in the funding settlements it receives. On a number of occasions Surrey Police have been called upon to help their colleagues in the Metropolitan Police and have responded effectively with enthusiasm and commitment. "Similarly they played a key role in helping limit and contain the spread of foot-and-mouth last year when they once again proved that they are more than capable of responding to unexpected events that occur within Surrey. The people of Surrey know they have a high-performing police force, and are, I believe, content to contribute towards that. "However, they also expect the Government to pay their fair share, and to reimburse Surrey Police for costs incurred when dealing with predatory crime from outside of Surrey. "Unfortunately it appears that Labour will yet again penalise Surrey Police for their hard work instead of rewarding it."
