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See other news storiesPolice numbers at a record high
24 July 2009
Police numbers have hit a record high in England and Wales, according to the latest figures.
The annual police service strength statistics (new window) show that the number of police officers has increased by 1,921 since March last year.
This is a rise of 1.4% and brings the total number of officers to 142,151.
Home Secretary Alan Johnson said that the figures are ‘encouraging,’ but said that the fight against crime is 'not just a numbers game.'
'What matters most is that the workforce delivers the best possible service to the public.
'Chief constables have more power than ever before to ensure they focus their resources on what matters to local people and what affects their communities.'
The figures also show that women represent 27% of rank and file officers.
There are now 6,290 black and minority ethnic police officers, which is an increase of 497 in the last year.
