Fears raised of budget cut crime wave

Published on Wednesday 1 September 2010 13:54

A VICTIMS support group has raised concerns that rising unemployment and police cuts will lead to a rise in crime.

David Sinclair, of Victim Support Scotland, said he hoped these concerns would be considered when government ministers and police chiefs discussed the effects of budget pressures this autumn.

He added: "We recognise that in times of high unemployment crime figures do tend to rise. That's a historical fact and is particularly true in some areas of Scotland.

"We're also aware of the damaging effect there would be on public morale, if there is a reduction in frontline policing.

"I am confident that the Scottish Government and police forces looking at cost saving measures will take these factors into account."

Scottish forces are looking at cuts of up to 25 per cent over four years. With about 85 per cent of their budget spent on staff it is inevitable that some will go.

Strathclyde and Central police forces have already announced plans to cut some police officers and civilians, with the other six forces expected to follow suit.