HAMPSHIRE'S top policeman has cast a critical eye over the powers to be wielded by a new crimestopping force.

Chief Constable Paul Kernaghan has written to Home Office Minister John Denham, and other MPs throughout Hampshire, expressing his concerns about the Government's proposed police reforms - including the introduction of community support officers.

This new civilian group, proposed in a White Paper on reforms, will be allowed to patrol the streets like police officers, armed with handcuffs but not CS spray or batons - something which Mr Kernaghan said could have safety implications.

"If a person resists them, they're obviously going to have to apply force," Mr Kernaghan told The Gazette.

"Up to now, the only people with the power to apply force are police officers.

"It's a huge move to say another group of people who aren't police officers are going to have the power to apply force. Surely they should be as well trained as police in restraint?"

He added that the proposed community support officers would have the power to detain officers, but not arrest them. However, the police chief is concerned that the difference between detention and arrest is unclear.

He also raised the question of funding for the new officers in a profession.

"There's not a single word about resourcing in the White Paper," he said.

"Where's the money going to come from? Is there a gap in the market? Where are the people who don't want to be police officers but will be willing to do lesser duties for a lesser salary? There is not enough detail in the White Paper."

Mr Kernaghan said he will continue to lobby MPs to make sure his questions are raised as the White Paper is debated through Parliament.

Other issues he will raise include employing experts from outside the force, modernising the criminal justice system and competency payments for police officers.

He also hopes to persuade the Government to let Hampshire pilot a scheme whereby officers who would usually retire after 30 years of service to collect their maximum payment can be re-employed, keeping their police experience in the force.

He said whatever way reforms are implemented, he will continue to fight for better pay for his officers, who are given a smaller cost of living allowance than their counterparts in the Thames Valley - even though Hampshire is an expensive area.

"I feel a part of my responsibility is to look after my staff, and I will keep on fighting that battle," he said.

"We are not looking for special treatment. We are looking for fair treatment."