The report of a possible cut in CIB numbers in Wellington is a matter for serious concern, says ACT Leader Richard Prebble.

"Wellington's burglary rate would indicate there is a demand for more detectives rather than less," Mr Prebble said.

"This study does not appear to be connected to crime levels or the demand for police. Instead, it's a cost-cutting exercise.

"No matter how the Government puts it, it looks like a cut in police numbers in order to pay for the INCIS computer, which is yet to show a return for the $100 million invested in it.

"It's a matter of concern that while the Opposition are speaking strongly on law and order, they have conspicuously failed to make any commitment to the crucial question of police numbers.

"ACT is the only party that's pointing out New Zealand has a spiralling level of crime together with one of the lower police to public ratios in the OECD. Indeed, for our crime level it's my understanding New Zealand has one of the worst police ratios.

"The Minister of Police, to my recent representations, said when the final review was made, the people of Wellington would be satisfied. Nothing I've seen indicates this and when Parliament resumes I will ask the Police Minister some tough questions," Mr Prebble said.

ENDS

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