Euro-MP accompanies new community support officers

11.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 12th May 2004

West Midlands Liberal Democrat MEP Liz Lynne accompanied Chief Superintendent Mick Dickerson and three new community support officers in Kingswinford today.

Liz was talking to local residents about the new initiative and found a very positive response to the support officers.

The Liberal Democrat Group on Dudley Metropolitan Council secured funding for 10 extra community support officers following the success of last years appointments.

Speaking after the meeting Liz, who is also number one candidate on the Liberal Democrat European List for next month's elections, commented:

"It was good to hear about the positive effect that these officers are having on their local communities. Especially working with the police as well as local councillors businesses and residents to tackle anti-social behaviour.

"At EU level we have tackled many problems related to cross-border and organized crime but it's just as important to address local problems, and community support officers are an excellent way of doing that.

"Liberal Democrats believe in decisions being taken at the lowest possible level, and this is an excellent example of how local government can provide a real benefit to local people."

ENDS