Future of Policing in the UK: Understanding the Economics

Policing does not exist in a social, political or economic vacuum. The economic framework in which policing must operate is constantly changing and is becoming increasingly difficult to predict. This fluid and dynamic financial situation combined with societal and political pressures make the task of policing even more complex. This paper examines the possible impact of contracting budgets and increasing demand from the public will have on the delivery of policing products and services. The article considers the role the private sector may have in delivering such policing products to the public along with alternative funding mechanisms such as payments by results. Such reforms are unquestionably significant and will change the relationship between police service and the public. Issues such as accountability, efficiency and overall economic viability are explored in relation to some of the possible reforms facing policing with the UK.