RECENT reports of comments by Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary on the Dorset Police are a matter for concern. (Echo, Oct 21) HMIC notes that there are ‘stark consequences’ implied in the cuts that the Force has already sustained, and a senior officer adds that there are doubts about it ‘policing effectively’ in the future.

The operational status of the force has been downgraded from ‘Good’ to ‘Requiring Improvement’.

Meanwhile, there are suggestions that further cuts in funding from 25-40% are being planned.

The Deputy Chief Constable encourages people to respond by replying to the survey entitled ‘Your Dorset, Your Police’, but this only requires residents to choose from an ever-shrinking list of police services.

Elsewhere, we read that new charges require defendants pleading ‘guilty’ in magistrates courts to pay £150, or £1000-£1200 in the crown court.

These charges are not means-tested.

Those pleading ‘not guilty’, lay themselves open to much higher charges.

The Law Society says that many accused are now pleading ‘guilty’ because they are terrified of the cost of defending themselves.

Apparently, dozens of magistrates across the country have resigned in protest at the injustice they are required to administer.

The pattern is clear.

The Public Service is being undermined by this Conservative Government bent on ‘shrinking the state’ to fund tax cuts for wealthy people.

If Echo readers feel a little less safe tonight, they should write to their local Conservative MP about it.

Dr Alan Chedzoy, Former Member, The Dorset Police Authority

Spa Road

Weymouth