Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what plans she has to improve the tackling of rural crime and ensure effective co-ordination across different police force areas; and if she will make a statement.

I recognise the importance of tackling rural crime, which is why the Government is recruiting an additional 20,000 police officers over the next three years to ensure that the public are protected against crime, including rural crime. To further support with existing efforts, the Government also provides regular funding to the police’s National Wildlife Crime Unit.

It is the responsibility of Police and Crime Commissioners and Chief Constables to ensure that the police priorities reflect those of their communities and that resources, including these new officers are deployed accordingly.