And it is crucial of course that chief constables are able to make decisions within their budgets about how they deploy their police officers to the greatest effect to ensure that they're able to do the job that the public want them to do.

Britain is an open and tolerant country.

People will be able to raise their concerns: what are local officers doing about the drug dealing in the local park? What's happening about the pub where all the trouble is? And the police will have to respond.

National security is the first duty of government but we are also committed to reversing the substantial erosion of civil liberties.

I will be ruthless in cutting out waste, streamlining structures and improving efficiency.

I think it's important to do a good job and not to feel that you've got to make grand gestures, but just to get on and deliver.

And it is crucial of course that chief constables are able to make decisions within their budgets about how they deploy their police officers to the greatest effect to ensure that they're able to do the job that the public want them to do.