Ealing's already under-strength police force could be further depleted when the Greater London Authority announces new personnel requirement figures on Monday (Dec 10).

Ealing is already coping with a shortfall of 38 officers but this could increase with the introduction of a new formula in the next financial year.

The GLA currently calculates a force's requirements by assessing the number of monthly incidents. Currently, Ealing needs 656 officers but there are only 618 officers serving the area.

The new formula being introduced in April will use factors such as social deprivation, youth crime, drug-related crime and the number of bars and clubs in the area.

But this could increase the deficit locally by a further two officers, despite the fact that it is intended to provide a 'more balanced' picture, according to GLA researcher Andrew Hollingsworth.

"There are a number of formula options in the pipeline but this looks the most likely. An increase of two in the deficit is small compared to other boroughs that may need up to 20 more officers."

The news comes as the latest Metropolitan Police crime figures recorded 389 burglaries in Ealing and 525 incidents of criminal damage the sixth highest figures in the capital.

There were also 556 violent offences against people the seventh highest in London.

Deputy chairman of the Metropolitan Police Authority and GLA member for Ealing and Hillingdon, Richard Barnes, admitted the figures were 'worrying' but said 'we are managing to reverse the problem'.

December 6, 2001 15:36