SALMOND: POLICE NUMBERS UP AND CRIME DOWN IN GRAMPIAN
>> 7 September 2010
Alex Salmond, MSP for Gordon, has welcomed new statistics published today which show the number of police officers in Grampian has increased to 1,557. That’s an increase of 183 since the SNP came to power in 2007 – and up 7 on the previous quarter.
Across Scotland the number of police officers has increased by 1190 since 31st March 2007 surpassing the SNP Manifesto commitment of a 1000 extra police officers. In addition, crime has fallen nearly 20% since 2007 under the SNP Government – in contrast to a fall of only 4% in 8 years of Labour rule.
The number of crimes committed in Grampian has also reduced for the fourth consecutive year – down 12 per cent between 2008-09 and 2009-10.
Commenting Mr Salmond said:
“The SNP committed to making Scotland safer when we came to power in 2007 – and with these stats showing police numbers up and crime down we’re clearly seeing the fruits of our labour.
“It’s so important to the people of Gordon that they feel safe – both in their own homes and on the streets - and it will be heartening to hear that the people of the North East have suffered less crime under the SNP Government.
“While we must never be complacent, these are excellent results and the efforts of the police must be applauded. The SNP Government will continue to work closely with the police, with communities and with all parts of our justice system to continue the good work that’s already underway.”
