§ 22. Huw Irranca-DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the Home Office on the use of police community support officers in Wales. [83089]
§ Mr. TouhigMy right hon. Friend and I have regular discussions with colleagues about matters affecting Wales.
Community Support Officers are a key part of our Police Reform programme. They are an additional resource aimed at further reducing crime and the fear of crime. They will be police authority employees who will help provide a highly visible policing presence on the streets and help tackle nuisance crime.
27 forces in England and Wales have successfully bid for funding. Gwent is one of these forces and will receive £900,000, which will pay for 30 officers in 2003–04.