Responding to the Metropolitan Police announcement that they will increase the number of firearm officers in the capital, Labour’s London Assembly Policing Spokesperson, Joanne McCartney AM, said:
“I welcome today’s announcement of new firearms officers for the capital but it’s important to remember that these extra officers will only serve to undo cuts the Met has been previously forced to make.
“Whilst today’s announcement is welcome the Met have warned for months that their counter-terrorism budgets are being stretched by the increase in threats. When the Home Secretary makes her counter-terrorism funding decision at the end of the month we hope to see acknowledgement of the Met's unique role in keeping our capital city and country safe.
“The Government need to take this issue seriously and stump up the money they have long promised. Counter-terrorism in the capital cannot be done on the cheap.”
Notes to editors
- Joanne McCartney AM is the London Assembly Member for Enfield and Haringey