Humberside Police want near-maximum council tax increase

Humberside PCC Jonathan Evison is proposing a near maximum increase in the police precept

Humberside's police and crime commissioner (PCC) has proposed a near-maximum increase to the policing proportion of council tax bills.

Jonathan Evison has put forward a £12.99 rise which is just a penny under the Government cap.

It would mean a typical Band D property would pay £281.18 in the next financial year, up from £268.19.

The PCC said the decision was made to "ensure the best achievable position for our communities".

The hike comes as council tax payers in East Yorkshire face a 4.99% rise in bills with North East Lincolnshire Council also proposing an increase.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the police precept will be used to maintain officer numbers, improve call response times, increase the number of specialist officers and patrols in coastal areas.

The forecasts in the report show the force is £245m in debt but described the financial position as "sustainable".

The PCC also confirmed he will look to make £1.5m savings over the next financial year and forecast an additional £6m savings by 2028.

The report will be discussed by councillors at the Humberside Police and Crime Panel meeting on 7 February.