THE Hampshire Police and Crime Panel (PCP) has given its backing to proposals by police and crime commissioner Simon Hayes, to increase the amount residents will have to pay for policing across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight in 2016/17.

At the panel’s meeting last Friday, Mr Hayes put forward an increase in the policing precept of 1.99 per cent for the coming financial year.

For residents in a band D property, it would equate to an increase in the policing share of their council tax, of £3.13 for the year 2016/17, or six pence a week.

As a result, Hampshire PCC’s basic council tax for the year beginning April 1 would be £160.46 per annum, at Band D.

The crime panel was set up in 2012 to scrutinise and support the work of the PCC and maintain a regular check and balance on his performance.

Panel chairman councillor David Stewart said: “With national austerity measures set to continue, it was essential for the panel to robustly question the PCC and challenge his budget proposals - alongside the findings of his recent public consultation on the budget.

“We were satisfied the precept level proposed was justified and therefore, by a majority, support the planned 1.99 per cent increase to generate £2million.

“We are facing some very challenging times ahead, particularly on public safety.

“The precept increase will not only enable the constabulary to protect 108 officer roles, but also better equip the force to tackle key issues in the future, such as cyber crime, child sexual exploitation and domestic violence, as well as continuing to deliver crucial neighbourhood policing.

“We were particularly reassured to hear the PCC also intends to make provision in his budget for the Marine Policing Unit, now that Government no longer funds this area.

“The panel is confident that by approving the PCC’s budget for 2016/17, the people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will continue to receive a high quality policing service.”