News story

1st April 2005

MP Discusses Local Policing Concerns with New Chief Constable

Northavon MP Steve Webb has today briefed new Chief Constable, Colin Port, about the policing issues that are of concern to South Gloucestershire residents. High on the agenda was the policing of travellers' encampments, especially in the light of the very recent incident involving cruelty to a dog near a site in Almondsbury. Steve Webb has already condemned the "despicable" treatment of the dog, and the Chief Constable reported that Police have visited the site, have made arrests and have recovered stolen property.

Among the other issues raised by Steve Webb was the number of officers on the beat in South Gloucestershire and the Police response to incidents of anti-social behaviour.

The Chief Constable told Steve Webb that he wanted his officers to be able to spend more time out on the beat and was working to cut down on the paperwork that they have to do. The two men also discussed reforms to the way that the Police are funded which would provide the local constabulary with new flexibility and would improve the quality of policing.

Speaking after the meeting, Steve Webb said:

"The chance to talk to the new Chief Constable early in his tenure was very welcome. I am encouraged that swift action was taken in response to the shocking incident involving cruelty to a dog at the Over Lane site. I am also pleased to hear that the Chief Constable wants to make sure that his officers can spend more time out on the beat and less doing paperwork, as this is certainly a message that I hear loud and clear from local residents".