GREATER Manchester’s Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner, who covers the Bury borough, is asking people to give feedback on his plans to protect policing.

Residents have until Friday January 20 to have their say on Tony Lloyd’s proposal to increase the policing element of the council tax by £5.

“Keeping our streets and homes safe throughout the year in the face of shrinking funds continues to be a challenge for policing in your area,” said Mr Lloyd.

“The Government’s failure once again to safeguard policing budgets and invest in community safety means Greater Manchester Police needs to find at least £22m of savings over the next 12 months.

“I’m asking for your support on this proposal so we can help maintain a strong, effective police service. Without it we will have to cut more from frontline policing.”

Since 2010, £180m has been axed from GMP’s budget and there are 2,000 fewer officers patrolling the metropolitan county’s streets.

Mr Lloyd said officers are dealing with more complex and challenging issues such as child sexual exploitation, domestic abuse and cybercrime, and cuts to other public services are adding additional pressure. Mr Lloyd says the proposal would see the police element of the average council tax bill rise from £157.30 to £162.30 – raising £3.5m for policing. You can have your say at www.gmpcc.org.uk/counciltax