Huddersfield public asked for their say on how police budget should be spent

PEOPLE in Huddersfield are being asked for their views on how much should be spent on policing their streets.

West Yorkshire Police Authority wants to consider the views of locals when setting the budget for the coming year.

The Authority is using an e-survey to find out how the public feel about the cost of policing in the county and whether they agree or disagree with an increase to the police council tax.

The survey also asks residents to imagine they had £140 to allocate to a range of police functions based on individual importance.

In February this consultation will assist the Authority in setting the budget for West Yorkshire Police for the next financial year 2012/13.

Local taxpayers contribute towards the cost of the police service through a police precept on the council tax.

The precept makes up the difference between funding from central government and the actual cost of running the force.

By law the Authority has to set the budget and agree how much to raise local council tax.

Clr Mark Burns-Williamson, chairman of the Police Authority, said: “Last year’s budget survey received the highest number of responses to date and some excellent feedback from members of the public. This year with the continuing economic difficulties, it is more important than ever we hear the thoughts of even more residents to help us when we are considering the budget for the coming year.”