ACPO comment on Policy Exchange report

ACPO lead on finance and resources Chief Constable Grahame Maxwell said:

"As a 24-hour, seven day a week organisation, the police service has to be able to respond flexibly to any event or crime at any time whether it be a flood, a major murder investigation or public order incident. Overtime is paid to officers of constable or sergeant rank only and reflects the realities of modern policing – including the fact that when required, working is compulsory for police officers. There are a large majority of officers who regularly work overtime without claiming any overtime payment in order that they complete their duties and serve the public.”

“The overall overtime spend by forces has been decreasing in recent years as better management practices have been implemented, but there is no doubt policing for additional events such as the Royal Wedding and the Olympic Games are going to put added pressure on already tight resourcing levels. ACPO agrees that aspects of the overtime system need reviewing and the service is absolutely committed to driving efficiencies.”

ENDS

For more information please contact:

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk