POLICE chiefs in Hampshire have warned of more cuts to the county’s service.

It is understood up to 1,200 officer and staff jobs could go in the next five years due to potential government cuts of between £40m-£65m.

Now Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Hayes and chief constable Andy Marsh are urging the public to help by completing a Government survey that will influence how forces are funded in the future.

In a joint message to the public, Mr Hayes and Mr Marsh said: “The proposed changes to police funding must lead to a fairer system than the current model. The people of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight currently lose out by £10m, which, in simple terms, means fewer police officers to keep people safe. These plans look like making that situation even worse.

“Hampshire Constabulary is already independently recognised to be a low cost force, leading the way on innovative projects such as sharing buildings, using technology, and increasing the percentage of officers deployed in frontline roles.

“Faced with further efficiencies, if the Constabulary is to maintain the existing quality of the service we need a fair deal and we need the public to help us to achieve that by making their voice heard in this public consultation.”

Hampshire Police has already seen its funding cut by around £80m.

Mr Hayes added: “If people or even the media are concerned by this and want a fair deal for our communities, they can do something about it by visiting my website and following some simple steps. It is important that we do this so that we can continue great work that is going on to protect people and places across our counties.”

For more details visit hampshire-pcc.gov.uk/Get-Involved/Funding-formula-consultation.aspx.