There are a number of remarks in the press and running on broadcast media that suggest that the Metropolitan Police’s budget will be cut by £400million.
The Government is not reducing the Metropolitan Police’s budget by £400 million.
Police spending was protected in the 2015 Spending Review, and the Met has had a broadly flat cash budget since then, including precept. There is more money and more officers for each Londoner than anywhere else in the country and this Government will continue to ensure that the Metropolitan Police have the resources they need to cut crime and keep our communities safe.
Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary has been clear that there remain significant efficiencies in policing to be delivered from digitisation, collaboration and improving workforce capability. The Government is investing £175million in the Police Transformation Fund this year to help all forces become more productive and manage pressures.
There is also speculation about the potential outcome from the review of the police funding formula. No decisions have been taken and no new formula will be introduced without a public consultation.