Christopher Fraser, MP for South West Norfolk, has spoken of his shock at suggestions that Government funding for Norfolk Constabulary could be cut back following revision of the formula used to calculate grants.
Christopher Fraser said: “Since my first speech the House of Commons as MP for South West Norfolk in 2005, I have consistently lobbied the Government for a better deal for Norfolk Constabulary in recognition of the vast rural area it has to police, as well as dealing with anti-social behaviour and serious crime in towns with problems of deprivation. Despite clear evidence that the Constabulary is not receiving sufficient funds to ensure proper policing in the county, Norfolk has faced year-on-year cuts. The prospect of even fewer officers on the beat is terrifying.
“I held surgeries in five towns and villages across South West Norfolk last week, and by far the most pressing issue raised with me at every venue was law and order. Constituents told me of drugs being sold openly in villages, of vandalism and burglary at community facilities, of frequent thefts from farms, of calls for help that went unanswered because there were simply not enough officers on duty, particularly at night.
“I have always said that Norfolk Constabulary does an exceptional job in the most difficult circumstances, but enough is enough. I have huge sympathy with the Chief Constable of Cambridge in her call for Ministers to recognise that the influx of migrant workers is putting immense pressure on the infrastructure of rural areas. Norfolk Constabulary needs better funding and a release from bureaucracy and form-filling if local people are to feel safe in their own homes, as they have every right to do. As soon as the House of Commons returns, I shall be raising this shameful situation with the Government.”
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