Source · Select Committees · Home Affairs Committee
Recommendation 54
54
Deferred
Paragraph: 137
Outdated Police Allocation Formula impedes effective strategic planning across forces.
Conclusion
Crime and demand patterns change over time. Policing priorities need to reflect this these changed contexts. We are not convinced that the 43-force model facilitates an effective strategic response to change especially as forces develop different initiatives that do not always align. The understandable lack of appetite for major changes to that structure intensifies the need for the centre to provide the basic building blocks for an effective service. It therefore cannot be right that the Police Allocation Formula remains outdated. If a long-term funding settlement is not possible, commissioners and forces should at least have the information they need to make medium-term financial plans.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledged that the Police Allocation Formula is outdated and confirmed it is currently undertaking a review in consultation with the policing sector, aiming for quality and longevity in new funding arrangements.
Paragraph Reference:
137
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
The Government has provided strong strategic direction of policing nationally, including through the SPR, which PCCs must have regard to, and Beating Crime Plan (see response to rec 29 for more details). It is for PCCs and Chief Constables to decide how best to incorporate the strategic direction into their local plans. The Government is committed to ensuring that the policing system has the powers, resources and tools to confront the complex and evolving crime picture we are grappling with. The government has recognised that the current police funding formula is out of date and no longer accurately reflects demand on policing and is currently undertaking a review in consultation with the policing sector. Although we are working to introduce new funding arrangements as soon as possible, their quality and longevity is our focus.