TIME is running out for people in Keighley district to respond to a survey on increasing the amount they contribute towards policing costs.

The budget consultation for 2019/20 launched by West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Burns-Williamson, wants to hear people's views on how the money should be raised from April 2019. The consultation runs until January 16.

Mr Burns-Williamson said: "As part of the annual funding settlement announced by the Government, Police and Crime Commissioners have been given the ability to raise their precept up to £24 for 2019/20 against a backdrop of Government cuts.

"It's essentially a Government expectation that they are increased by the maximum amount to enable police forces to absorb annual cost increases and continue to rebuild frontline policing.

"I'm therefore asking people for their thoughts on a potential £24-a-year – 46p a week – increase on the policing precept, for a band D property.

"This would allow West Yorkshire Police protection for local policing and recruitment of officers, while ensuring local people still pay significantly less than in neighbouring force areas.

"More than 70 per cent of properties in West Yorkshire are in bands A, B and C which is between a 31p to 41p increase per week if this is implemented."

People can complete the online consultation at smartsurvey.co.uk/s/PreceptConsultation