Band D taxpayers in Suffolk could pay £13 more to fund police services

Suffolk taxpayers are being asked to share their opinions on a precept increase which would increase the police’s budget by £3.4 million.

Tim Passmore, Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, has launched the survey to gauge the public’s views on a draft proposal to increase Band D taxpayers' precept by £13 per year.

The 4.9 per cent increase equates to 25p a week and would help give Suffolk Constabulary the resources it needs to keep up with demand.

Mr Passmore said: “I must ensure that the Constabulary has the resources needed to provide an efficient and effective service, whilst ensuring that I use Suffolk taxpayers’ money for the maximum benefit.

“As has been the case for several years, our funding from Government is just not enough, so I really do need to consider an increase the precept to maintain the level of police service in the county.

“Suffolk is one of the lowest-funded forces in the country and faces significant challenges.

“The full £13 increase (for a band D property) would increase the policing budget by £3.4m and give the Constabulary the resources it needs to keep pace with demand.”

To take part in the survey, click here.

It closes at 9am on Thursday, January 25 2024.

The Police and Crime Commissioner said: “Setting the budget, and the level of council tax we all pay for policing in the county, is not a decision I take lightly.

“It is always a difficult balance and this year, the financial situation we find ourselves in nationally has presented additional challenges.

“We face economic uncertainty but we must deliver an efficient and effective police force, which is sustainable, in the face of this uncertainty.

“In addition to this, demands on policing are ever growing.”

Mr Passmore will present his final proposal to the Police and Crime Panel on Friday, January 26, 2024 for approval.

The papers for this meeting will be published five clear working days before on Suffolk County Council’s website.

He added: “We have taken significant steps towards managing these demands in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024.

“Regretfully I feel I have no option other than to propose increasing the precept by 4.9%. This will enable us to maintain a standard of service that the public expect.

“I hope everyone will take the opportunity to consider my proposal and let me know their thoughts via the survey. As Police and Crime Commissioner, I represent the people of Suffolk so it is important I hear their views.”