Lib Dems in arrest claims

Councillor Elwyn Watkins

The Liberal Democrats claim they would see 1,500 more criminals arrested in Greater Manchester each year if they were running Britain.

Their policing plans would see an extra 155 officers on average making 1,570 more arrests, according to Councillor Elwyn Watkins, who is also the party’s Oldham East and Saddleworth candidate.

He said: “People would be able to sleep more soundly thanks to our pledge to award Greater Manchester Police an extra 155 officers.

“All the research shows that arresting criminals and punishing them is the best way to reduce crime. Those extra 155 officers in Greater Manchester will be expected to make an additional 1,570 arrests. That would mean up to 1,500 less crimes committed and criminals being brought to justice each year.”