Have your say on vision for better policing

OLDHAMERS are being encouraged to have their say on proposals designed to improve policing in their community.

The Home Secretary set out the Government’s vision for policing in the green paper “From neighbourhood to the national: policing our communities together”, published on July 17.

It contains plans to cut red tape and a new policing pledge, setting out what local people can expect from their local police.

It also suggests replacing targets with just one aimed at measuring public confidence in the police, while local people should be given a stronger voice through improved access to information about crime and new, directly elected crime and policing representatives.

Greater Manchester Police Authority (GMPA) chairman, Councillor Paul Murphy, said: “The green paper proposals show the Government recognises the importance of the involvement of local people in policing.

“It is vital that we now tell the Government what we think about the proposals to ensure only those which are effective and fully supported by communities end up as legislation.”

The consultation is open to everyone from members of the public to large organisations, including police forces and police authorities.

Councillor Murphy added: “There are some really good ideas in the green paper.

“Similarly, there are some proposals which we feel are unnecessary and would hamper the delivery of an effective police service.

“I encourage everyone to take a look at the plans and make their views about them known.

“It would be a real shame if legislation which Greater Manchester people do not support is approved because they did not make their voice heard at this crucial stage.”

To see the geen paper and a response form visit http://www.gmpa.gov.uk/involved/consultation/consultation-2.htm  

Alternatively call the Home Office on 0207 035 4848 (9am-5pm Monday to Friday) to order a copy.