Blears: New policing plan

The government has unveiled plans to overhaul the police service alongside new legislation to reform the way law enforcement agencies combat organised crime.

The Home Office's national policing plan for the years leading up to 2008 was published on Wednesday.

Central to the blueprint is a drive to reduce the overall levels of crime - with a new focus on violent and drug related offences.

Ministers say they want to establish a "citizen-focused police service" which responds to the needs of communities and individuals.

"It is the job of government to help and support the police service to deliver effectively," said Home Office minister Hazel Blears.

"Working with forces and police authorities we are bringing about modernisation to respond to the challenges of our changing society and in turn ensuring that the country is safer and better policed."

In future a greater emphasis will be put on the needs of victims and witnesses. Renewed impetus will also be given to restoring confidence in the police within ethnic communities.

Worst offenders

The police are charged with increasing efforts to target prolific and priority offenders.

And senior officers are being asked to implement a strategy to reduce people's fear about crime and anti-social behaviour.

Forces will be pressed to work together to combat serious and organised crime.

The announcement came as the government detailed its plans to Serious Organised Crime Agency - dubbed the UK's FBI.

The Serious Organised Crime and Police Bill formed the centrepiece of Tuesday's Queen's Speech and is one of few bills guaranteed to make it onto the statute book during this parliamentary session.

Community drive

Ministers have also announced the allocation of nearly 1,600 new community support officers who will work with police to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in communities.

Commenting on the creation of the new CSO posts, Blears added: "We already have 140,000 police officers - that's more than ever before. I am committed to maintaining those record police numbers, while putting in place a total of 24,000 community support officers by the end of 2008.

She said CSOs are "a key element" the drive to cut crime and reduce the fear of crime.

"They complement constables by providing highly visible patrols and focusing on low-level crime and nuisance behaviour, which we know reduces fear of crime and improves quality of life in our communities," added Blears.

As it prepares for a busy five months, the Home Office has also detailed a dedicated strategy for training officers on how to improve the way they deal with race and diversity issues.

The five-year programme will apply to all officers and covers race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age and religion and belief.