THE chairman of Dorset Police Federation says a reduction in starting salary for new cops doesn’t reflect the “dangers and demands” faced by officers.

Home Secretary Theresa May this morning announced that the salary for new recruits has been cut by £4,000 to £19,000.

She accepted recommendations on reform made by the Police Arbitration Tribunal.

It follows proposals put forward last year by former rail regulator Tom Winsor for an overhaul of police pay, conditions and allowances.

A review by Mr Winsor recommended £1bn could be cut from police pay.

Speaking about the salary cut, Clive Chamberlain said: “I think it’s a poor decision.

“The starting point is ill-conceived because it doesn’t reflect the dangers and demands that are placed on police officers. Those who come into the job they are the ones, who after some training, will be straight out there dealing with things at the sharp end.

“They will be the ones who will be in the thick of it and I don’t think £19,000 reflects the demands of the job.

“Compared to other occupations it makes me wonder whether we will attract the right standard of recruits.”

He added: “People thinking of a change of career to become a police officer will potentially have to take a huge pay cut. They appear to be banking on the fact that because people want a job, they will put up with any wage. I don’t think there will be a shortage of people wanting the join the police, my question is will they be the right people.”

Mr Chamberlain said he respected Mrs May for accepting to follow the arbitration panel’s decision.

The Association of Chief Police Officers' (ACPO) lead on workforce development, chief constable Peter Fahy, said: "Acpo was concerned about the starting salaries range proposed and the outcome of these negotiations means that chief constables will now have the flexibility to pay a starting salary of up to £22,000 depending on skills and qualifications. Officers can also reach the top rate of pay three years earlier than under the current arrangements."