Public views sought on Humberside Police priorities

Police budgets are expected to be reduced by 25% in the government's spending review

A public consultation on policing in East Yorkshire and north Lincolnshire is being launched as the Humberside force prepares for "stringent cuts".

Humberside Police Authority is to ask residents over the coming months what they want from the force.

Police budgets in England are expected to be reduced by 25% in the government's spending review.

The authority said it had prepared for the cuts and was committed to providing an "outstanding police service".

Website forum

Councillor Chris Matthews, chairman of Humberside Police Authority, said: "I want to put the record straight, explain to people what we have been doing to prepare for stringent cuts so that changes can be introduced through a structured, strategically managed and controlled process.

"The authority remains totally committed to the provision of an outstanding police service, one that is affordable and meets the needs of local people.

"We will be able to allocate funding to the chief constable in a more meaningful way if local people join in our conversation."

Questionnaires will be used in the consultation, as well as a citizens' panel, local meetings, focus groups and a website forum.

The Police Federation has said up to 40,000 front line police jobs could be axed across England and Wales if the government cuts go ahead.

In January, Humberside Police revealed it had to cut £15m over the next five years to meet government targets.