CRIME will go up in Gwent as government cuts take effect, Gwent Police Federation’s chairman said today.

Jeff Mapps described the 20 per cent cuts over four years, announced by the Westminster government, as “criminal” and said they would lead to a poorer service for the public.

As part of continued cuts by the coalition government in London, police officers from across Wales and England were asked for their thoughts as part of a Police Federation survey.

In Gwent, around 700 officers responded to the survey, 89 per cent of whom said these cuts would have a detrimental effect on crime levels; 91 per cent said they thought there would be a decline in the service they give.

Mr Mapps said: “The message from police officers in Gwent is loud and clear.

They feel they are being hit from all sides by this government who, in addition to attacking their terms and conditions, are imposing a 20 per cent cut on the service which will undoubtedly lead to increased levels of crime and a poorer service for the public in Gwent.”

Mr Mapps said the federation was not opposed to change and knows police forces must contribute towards the public sector cuts, but implored the government to establish a Royal Commission on policing.

“Cuts of this magnitude are criminal and, despite the very best efforts of ranks and file police officers, will undoubtedly lead to a poorer service for the residents and businesses in Gwent.

“That is why it is imperative that those who live and work in Gwent make clear to our local politicians that a cut of this magnitude to the police budget needs to be urgently reconsidered by national government before it is too late and we all suffer the unintended consequences of their actions.”

A Gwent Police spokeswoman said: “It is clear that the financial challenges facing Gwent Police and Gwent Police Authority will be difficult to overcome, and while we are intent on working closely to minimise effect on the service we provide to the residents of Gwent, it is inevitable that there will be some impact.”

Gwent Police Federation is a staff association which represents the force’s 1,473 police constables, sergeants and inspectors.

EDITORIAL COMMENT: Police cuts are bitter pill

WE have every sympathy with Gwent Police, and indeed other forces up and down the country facing huge cutbacks.

The force is facing cuts of more than £24 million over the next four years.

New chief constable Carmel Napier has an almighty task ahead of her, but has already vowed to do everything she can to protect frontline officers.

Today, Gwent Police Federation chairman JeffMapps describes the cuts as “criminal” and has warned crime will go up as the public get a poorer service.

It’s a stark warning, but one the government should listen to.

No matter howhard those in charge try, we can’t envisage such deep cuts not having any impact on frontline services.

Money-saving projects already introduced include sharing a legal service with South Wales Police.

Premises-sharing with councils and other authorities is being looked into to ease running costs for all concerned.

IT services could also be split between police and local authorities.

It is inevitable cuts to the public sector were going to be made, whatever government was in charge.

However, cuts to the police are a bitter pill to swallow.

Public safety and protection should never be under threat, yet officers believe it will be if these cuts go-ahead.

There doesn’t seem to be any easy solution.

However, we believe our police forces, like the ambulance and fire services, should be a no-go area when it comes to cuts if they will affect those on the front line.