HUGH ROBERTSON OPPOSES REORGANISATION OF KENT POLICE

Hugh Robertson has today issued a stern warning about the dangers of abolishing the Kent Police and turning them into a regional organisation. The plan is currently being considered by the Home Office.

Hugh Robertson said: “There are three main reasons why Kent should retain its own police force:

“Firstly, nobody in Kent has voted for a regional structure of government yet and fire, ambulance and health services are already being reorganised on a regional basis by stealth. It is wrong and profoundly undemocratic.

“Secondly, Kent is a large county with very particular needs in terms of its geography and infrastructure. It needs its own police force.

“Thirdly, the Kent police have done well in the recent performance tables and are looking to build on that reputation. Further reorganisation, for political reasons, will be disruptive and damaging.

“I urge the Home Office to drop this undemocratic and illogical proposal, which will do nothing to help the fight against crime, and allow Kent to retain its own police force.”