Police commissioner outlines plan for tax freeze

Cambridgeshire police and crime commissioner, Sir Graham Bright has announced that he is planning to freeze the policing element of the council tax for the next financial year.

Sir Graham’s recommendation follows news from government that the 2015/16 policing grant for Cambridgeshire will be £73.32 million - a £4 million reduction on the previous year.

But Sir Graham says the reduction will not affect his plans to “deliver against the objectives and pledges as set out in the police and crime plan”.

Sir Graham said: “We recognise the hardships that many of our citizens are facing in these austere times and do not want to add to their burdens.

“My team have worked closely with the constabulary to ensure an effective and efficient force, driving down costs during the year and developing plans to meet future saving requirements.

“The adoption of new technology and working in collaboration with other forces will continue to deliver further efficiencies moving forward.

“We are therefore able to balance the books without the need to increase the precept this year. I would like to thank all those who have worked so hard to make this possible.”

The recommendation will go to the police and crime panel for approval at its next meeting on January 28.