Police freeze council tax precept

POLICE in Hertfordshire will freeze their council tax precept for the third year in a row.

Newly elected Police and Crime Commissioner for Hertfordshire, David Lloyd, announced the news following meeting with the county’s chief constable, Andy Bliss.

Commissioner Lloyd said: “This is the third year running that the public hasn’t had to pay a penny more for policing in Hertfordshire. People are feeling the pinch and it would be wrong to increase their bills at this time.

“Hertfordshire police finances are well managed and I am confident that we shall be able to continue to drive down crime whilst keeping taxes low.”

The final detail of the budget is still being progressed but an initial presentation will be made to the Hertfordshire Police and Crime Panel, which has a statutory role in considering the precept level, on December 6.

“I intend to demonstrate to the panel that high quality policing can be maintained across Hertfordshire whilst the overall budget reduces,” said Commissioner Lloyd.

“Ensuring the very best value for money is one of my top priorities and I will continue to work to promote front line policing provision.”