THE HOME Secretary came to Bromsgrove earlier to show his support for Conservative general election candidate Bradley Thomas and to talk about local policing.
James Cleverly and Mr Thomas met in Ascotts in Aston Fields before knocking on doors as part of the canvassing campaign.
Mr Cleverly said: “I was predominantly here to support Bradley and to listen to the plans he has if he’s elected – I am confident he will be as he’s an excellent candidate.
Picture by Marcus Mingins. Copyright Bullivant Media Group.
“He has spoken about how he will work with the Police and Crime Commissioner to improve policing – not just in town but in the rural areas too.”
The pair spoke to business owners and residents about potential policing improvements.
Mr Cleverly added: “We want to crack down on crime so local people can live their lives as they want.”
And the Home Secretary said he and Mr Thomas were given a good reception.
“The vibe seemed positive but we know we must take nothing for granted.”
Picture by Marcus Mingins. Copyright Bullivant Media Group.
The Conservatives had come under fire previously for cutting the number of police officers by 21,500 from forces across the UK between 2010 and 2018.
But Mr Cleverly said: “When we came to power in 2010 we inherited an economic disaster and had to make some tough decisions and cuts in public spending.
“But there has been an extra 600 officers in West Mercia through this latest uplift and officer numbers are the highest they have been since 2016.”
Picture by Marcus Mingins. Copyright Bullivant Media Group.
Mr Thomas said he was delighted to welcome the Home Secretary and added: “We have discussed local matters including crime, anti-social behaviour and rural specific policing matters.
“I’m delighted that Bromsgrove is benefiting from the additional 333 police officers in West Mercia since 2019 – a 15 per cent uplift.
“I know anti-social behaviour is a significant concern for many areas. Just this week the Home Secretary announced an additional £1million to tackle this. This follows similar work on county lines drug gangs and tackling rural crime.
“Since my selection as the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate I have been actively campaigning on policing and safety matters including attending various drop in sessions where the Police and Crime Commissioner and local police officers have met with residents to understand their concerns, answer questions and provide access to crime prevention resources.
“As the Conservative parliamentary candidate, I’m determined to listen and support residents where I can.
“I could not have a better person to raise these issues with than the Home Secretary himself.”
Current Bromsgrove MP Sajid Javid announced last year he would not be standing at the next general election.
Residents will likely go to the polls this year but a date is yet to be announced.
