DURHAM'S Police and Crime Commissioner, Ron Hogg, has hit out at a proposed cut in the force's budget for 2013-14 – but says he remains committed to the priorities he has set to tackle domestic abuse and hate crime.

The Government provisional police grant settlement would see a 1.6 per cent cut in the Durham force's allocation.

The provisional settlement is now out for consultation after which a final decision will be made.

Mr Hogg said: “I met the Home Secretary in November who listened to the concerns of PCCs up and down the country, however, the proposed grant does not reflected the issues we raised.

“I am deeply disappointed with this grant settlement which continues to challenge policing nationally.”

He added: “I want to reassure communities that my personal priorities to reduce the impact of domestic abuse and hate crime as well as improving engagement with local communities will be maintained, despite the proposed cuts.”

Mr Hogg is also urging the county's residents to tell him what their top three policing priorities are by taking part in his first public consultation.

“In light of the Government’s proposals, it is even more important the public get in touch to have their say,” he said.

Mr Hogg’s consultation runs until Friday, January 4. Residents can take part online at: www.durham-pcc.gov.uk; by email to: enquiries@durham-pcc.gov.uk or by telephone on: 0191-3835511.