Philip Dune MP has welcomed the announcement that 197 police officers have been recruited in West Mercia since September 2019, bringing the total number of officers up to 2,371.

The latest figures are part of the Government’s drive to get 20,000 more police officers on the street by March 2023, and puts the Government on track to fulfil its manifesto commitment with 68 per cent of the target now met.

Across the 43 police forces, an additional 13,576 officers have been recruited, bringing the total number of police officers in England and Wales to 142,526 – where they are already having an impact in tackling crime and keeping communities safe.

The 13,576 extra officers will support the Government’s crackdown on crime, which has seen the launch of the Beating Crime Plan and the passing of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill through the House of Commons.

This builds on the action already taken by the Government since 2019, including boosting police funding to a record £15.8 billion and delivering £70 million through the Safer Streets Fund to make neighbourhoods secure. 

Mr Dunne said:

“More visible policing is a key priority for many people in South Shropshire, which is why John Campion our excellent Police & Crime Commissioner for West Mercia continues to place a greater emphasis on rural policing and officer numbers.

“197 additional recruits mean there are now 3,371 police officers in West Mercia, helping to pursue criminals, keep neighbourhoods safe, and reassure the law-abiding majority.”