The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed the 2.5% pay increase for police officers, but says he has concerns that it will lead to cuts elsewhere in policing because it has to be funded from current budgets.
David Jamieson says the increase goes some way to recognise the hard work of officers throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, but has asked for clarity from the government as to how it will pay for the rise.
If the government does not agree to fund this increase with extra money then it could result in a net loss of 36 police officers.
Due to government cuts West Midlands Police has lost £175 million since 2010, resulting in the loss of more than 2,200 officers.
Commenting on today’s announcement David Jamieson said: “Throughout the CoVID-19 pandemic West Midlands Police officers, and all key public sector workers, have gone above and beyond to ensure that our region is safe.
“I welcome the proposed pay increase, however the government needs to provide further clarity on how this will be funded.
“If the government does not commit to paying for this pay rise in full then it could lead to a net loss in police officers”.
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