Katy Bourne, the county’s Police & Crime Commissioner, has welcomed a unanimous vote of support from the Sussex Police & Crime Panel members who have today (Friday 1 February) backed her decision to increase the police precept by an extra £2 per month (for an average band D property).
This recommendation was made after substantial online public consultation by the PCC and 13 focus groups held across Sussex in which people said they would pay more for policing if it increased the visibility of local police.
Commenting after the meeting, Mrs Bourne said: “I have been lobbying hard to secure the best possible funding arrangements for policing. I am pleased that the Panel has supported my decision to increase the police precept by its maximum for 2019/20, taking full advantage of the flexibility provided by government.
If you missed the panel meeting today you can watch it here, or if you have any questions about the policing precept you can see the PCC’s answers to the most frequently asked questions or submit your own question here.
The PCC has also published the results of her online survey and focus groups here.