'˜I do not intend reducing police officer numbers during my term in office' vows Leicestershire's crime commissioner at first crime panel meeting

Leicestershire's police and crime commissioner Lord Willy Bach has said he does not intend reducing police officer or police community support officer (Pcso) numbers during his term in office '“ but acknowledges that future police funding could have an impact on numbers.

By The Newsroom

Published 6th Jul 2016, 11:22 BST

Updated 25th Aug 2016, 18:08 BST

Leicestershire and Rutland's police and crime commissioner Lord Willy Bach

Lord Bach’s comments came at his first meeting of Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Panel, made up councillors and independent members who oversee his role.

Lord Bach told the panel: “At the end of my term of office in four years, I intend not to have fewer police officers or Pcsos than are planned for in March 2017.”

Lord Bach said he believed there was a connection between police visibility and public confidence, adding that tackling hate crime was a priority for the force.

He also confirmed he will appoint a deputy police and crime commissioner but not before the autumn.