Police Commissioner Ron Hogg is asking residents’ views on paying more for policing. People across County Durham and Darlington are being asked for their opinion about police funding in a new survey.

The survey asks whether local residents would be prepared to pay a higher amount for the police element of Council Tax, to maximise the number of Police Officers in the area.

Ron Hogg said: “The Government has reduced the funding for policing every year since 2010, which has led to a reduction of around 360 officers. Next year I expect to have to increase the police element of Council Tax by 2% to maximise numbers. This is equivalent to 4p a week for a household living in a property in Council Tax Band A.”

Ron added “as well as seeking the views of local residents, last week I wrote to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to demand central government provide more funding for policing. Whilst I am willing to ask local people to consider paying a little more, it is not right that they should shoulder the whole burden”.

The survey only takes a few seconds to complete. It can be found on Ron’s website at: www.durham-pcc.gov.uk