Police Officers in England and Wales will receive a 2.5 per cent pay rise from September 1.

The increased pay was decided upon after after the Government accepted the recommendations made by the Police Remuneration Review Body (PRRB).

The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) said that the 2.5 per cent increase in pay across all ranks "is a step in the right direction and, whilst it is less than the we asked for, will be broadly welcomed against a backdrop of financial pressures on the economy."

It was also announced that the dog handlers’ allowance will increase by 2.5 per cent, there will be the removal of the lowest point on the sergeants’ pay scale and the London Allowance will increase by £1,000.   Anna Harvey, chair of Dorset Police Federation, said: "I am pleased to see the Government has awarded officers a 2.5 per cent rise. The PFEW submission was comprehensive and evidenced asking for 5 per cent, however we have to appreciate the effects on the economy since the COVID-19 pandemic.

This morning officers have been messaging me stating that this good news, and reflects the professional commitment officers have made during the last few months. We understand that many people across the country are facing a difficult financial future."

National chair of PFEW, John Apter, said: "In the current financial climate with so much uncertainty, the fact the Government has fully accepted the recommendations of the PRRB will come as a relief.

"Do my colleagues deserve more? Absolutely, and the Government must go further to pay officers fairly for the unique and dangerous job they do.   "However, with the economic vulnerability we face as a country, many colleagues will be relieved to receive a 2.5 per cent pay increase - anything lower would have been completely unacceptable."

"It is positive to see the Government abiding by proper process and accepting all the recommendations of the PRRB. This has not always been the case.

"We will continue to fight to get our members the pay they deserve following a real-terms cut of 18% during the last decade, the effects of which have taken their toll."

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "Our amazing police have responded to unprecedented challenges during coronavirus. To recognise their immense efforts, we will be increasing their pay this year. To everyone in the policing family - thank you."