Harsh times are no excuse to cut police numbers - Dee Doocey

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 29th Jun 2009

Dee Doocey, the Liberal Democrat London Assembly Police Spokesperson, commenting on planned cuts in the Metropolitan Police budget over the next three years said:

"Harsh economic times are no excuse for even considering cutting the number of police officers in London. It is crucial that the capital's police strength of 33,000 officers is maintained over the years ahead. The recruitment of further specials is important, but specials must never be used as a substitute for permanent officers.

"There can be no grounds for complacency in tackling crime and maintaining public safety in the capital, especially with such huge challenges ahead, such as the Olympics.

"At a time when people still feel insecure in many of London's communities it is vital to ensure that we retain at least 33,000 police officers.

"A proper review of the Met's overall budget could ensure that savings are found in non frontline services. There is no excuse for resorting to short sighted cuts in police numbers."