RESIDENTS in East Lancashire are to be asked if they want to pay more towards policing.

The Police and Crime Commissioner has asked residents in the area if they want to freeze the council tax 'precept' payment or to increase it.

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Two options of a rise have been tabled by Clive Grunshaw: a two per cent increase, equivalent to six pence a week, or a five per cent increase, equivalent to 15p a week for a band D council tax payer.

He said: "I know it is always difficult asking people to pay more for something, especially when they may still be feeling the effects of the downturn, but I think the public really want to know I am doing all I can to protect the police force from unnecessary cuts and that means asking if they are prepared to pay a little more.

"If the police precept is increased by six pence a week or two per cent, that is equivalent of pay for 26 police officers or 45 PCSOs, national insurance and pension payments. That's something I am sure the public would consider was worth spending an extra six pence a week on."

The public can have their say in several different ways, the commissioner said.

Surveys can be accessed from all police enquiry desks and some libraries throughout the county during December, while an online survey at www.lancashire-pcc.gov.uk is being promoted through social media networks.

Mr Grunshaw will be attending several public engagements to discuss the plan over the next two months, while roadshows will be held in town centres in the new year.

Alternatively, residents can call the commissioner's office before December 23 and request a survey is sent to them at their home address.

Mr Grunshaw said: "It's really important that everyone has the chance to have their say and that is why I am launching this survey and a range of ways for people to engage with me on the issue.

"Inevitably reductions in budgets will mean some jobs may be lost across Lancashire in the long term, but a modest increase could make a significant difference."

Hyndburn and Haslingden MP Graham Jones said: "I think an increase is a good idea. I think we have got to ask the question.

"There's too few police officers employed and even fewer police back office staff which is tying police officers up.

"They can't attend non-emergencies or low level crime always, they have to prioritise, and the public are not getting the service they want.

"If people are under the impression they are paying twice for this service, they need to ask questions of the government why that is, and why they are reducing funding on such a big scale.

"We must fight crime today, so it's right to ask locally if we can do something about it."

To speak to the commissioner's office, call 01772 533587.