Andrew Bridgen MP welcomes launch of single non-emergency 101 police number
Andrew Bridgen MP has welcomed the roll out of a single non-emergency 101 number to police forces across England and Wales to help the public access the police when they need them.
101 will give the public a memorable number for their local police to report crimes and concerns that do not require an emergency response. It will also help the police to deal more efficiently with calls for help from the public.
At 15p per call from both mobile phones and landlines, no matter how long the call or what time of day, the public will be spared the cost of traditional 0845 numbers previously used by many forces which can cost up to 40p per minute.
With only 25 per cent of 999 calls to the police requiring an emergency response, ministers and chief constables are confident that the 101 number will also ease pressure on 999 services.
Andrew Bridgen MP, said: “I welcome Minister for the Police Nick Herbert's announcement on this issue. The introduction of the 101 number marks one of the most significant changes in the way people contact the police since 999 was introduced nearly 70 years ago.
“North West Leicestershire residents now have an easier way to contact the local police force with a memorable number for non-emergencies. Previous plans for a national non-emergency number never materialised, but this Government has delivered a practical scheme.
“Together with street level crime mapping and the election of Police and Crime Commissioners, 101 marks another step forward in this government's ambition to strengthen the connection between the police and public, and cut crime.”
Police forces in England and Wales have gradually gone live with 101 on a phased basis. The last of the 43 forces have now adopted the number and it is already proving popular with more than two and a half million calls.
Looking to the future, the government is aware of the potential of 101 for transforming local services. Subject to local agreement, the 101 number could enable the police to join up with partners to provide communities with easier access to a wider range of local services.