ACT Leader and Wellington Central MP Hon Richard Prebble today said the safety of Wellington residents and their property should be the primary concern of Police Commissioner Peter Doone when making a decision on the number of CIB staff policing the city.

"I extremely concerned by reports today that the number of CIB staff could be slashed by up to 30 from the number allocated early last year if the Commissioner backs the review's recommendations.

"The only people that haven't been consulted about the proposed cuts to Police numbers are those affected, the residents of Wellington. As local MP I'm conducting the survey myself.

"Even with the current number of CIB officers they are only managing to solve one in 11 burglaries. Some nights there are already no police for low priority burglaries.

"I am seeking the support of all Wellington Central residents to oppose any reduction in Police numbers. I have already written to the Minister of Police asking that the Police Review be put on hold until the results of my survey are in." said Hon Richard Prebble.

ENDS

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