DORSET'S police and crime commissioner has voiced his gratitude after one of the area's MPs highlighted the "inconvenient truth" of the current police funding formula.

Last week, South Dorset MP Richard Drax spoke out about concerns he had with officers being taken off the beat to deal with complex incidents such as cyber crimes and modern slavery.

The comments come as Dorset Police is set to lose out from the police funding formula with regard to receiving support from the Government.

Mr Drax called for more officers on the ground, with the finances for this coming from central Government.

As reported by the Daily Echo, this view was backed up by Anna Harvey, of Dorset Police Federation, and Cllr John Adam, vice-chair of the Dorset Police and Crime Panel.

These views are also shared by Dorset PCC Martyn Underhill, who says every decision he makes, including a potential merger with a neighbouring police force, aims to allow for funds to be put into frontline policing and emerging offences.

“I am grateful to Richard Drax MP for once again highlighting in Parliament the inconvenient truth that Dorset loses out under the current police funding formula," Mr Underhill said.

"Against this backdrop, Mr Drax rightly commends the force’s officers and staff for their unwavering dedication to protecting the communities they serve."

The independent police and crime commissioner added he was disappointed that no additional central Government funding was being allocated to Dorset Police this year, but the move to increase the local policing precept will allow for resources to meet increasing demand.

“All decisions I take, including the exploration of a possible merger with Devon & Cornwall Police, aim to deliver efficiency savings that ultimately allow for reinvestment into emerging crime areas and our frontline," Mr Underhill added.

"As the voice of local people in policing, this is my top priority.”