Local MP warns that government cuts have increased crime – but praises local police for limiting the rise

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has praised the efforts of the Cumbrian police force but acknowledged that Government cuts have increased crime.

Overall crime increased by 3% in Cumbria last year, far lower than the average increase of 15% suffered by the rest of the UK.

Cumbria had the third-smallest increase in crime in all of England and Wales, and was by far the smallest increase in the North West.

This news comes as police numbers are at their lowest level since modern records began in 1996.

Tim said; "It is always worrying to see the level of crime rise anywhere, but thanks to the efforts of our committed local police force, we have had the best performance in the North West.

"What these figures show is the impact that irresponsible spending cuts are having on policing, and that the hard work and resilience of brilliant local police forces cannot fully hold back the tide.

"The Government must understand that when they reduce police numbers, crime will rise.

"There is no excuse for leaving hard-working public servants underfunded in the line of duty - that is not good enough."