Avon and Somerset Police 2% budget increase proposed

PCC Sue Mountstevens is considering a 2% hike on the police precept

Council taxpayers will face a bill-increase in order fund a 2% rise in the police budget, if Avon and Somerset's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) bid is approved.

Sue Mountstevens said the rise was needed to help fund a proposed budget deficit of £47m by 2017.

It would mean an average household pays £3.36 extra on its council tax bill next year.

Avon and Somerset's Police and Crime Panel discussed the idea on Wednesday.

Ms Mountstevens said: "There is less money coming from central government.

"I believe people really do value their police an are prepared to pay a little bit more."

She said that even with the proposed budget increase £12m of savings would still be need to be made by the police, leading to about 40 job losses.

The average Band D household currently pays £168 per year towards policing.

A final decision is due to be made next February.