My, what a difference 5 days make :- "Police warn of a rise in burglaries across Eastbourne
Published Date: 17 March 2010
THERE has been a rise in burglaries in Hampden Park, as well as other areas of Eastbourne."

Seems so different from:- "ON THE BEAT - Policing figures looking healthy Published Date: 12 March 2010 By Police Chief Inspector Jayne Dando"

In this article, The Hard-spinning Chief Inspector congratulates herself and her force with the words "Our total crime is down year on year by 8 per cent. This equates to 611 fewer victims of crime. Burglaries of people's homes are down by more than 10 per cent and vehicle crime has dropped an amazing 23 per cent this year which means 143 fewer victims.".

While these two reports aren't absolutely contradictory, they are very different in tone.
Should we worry that burglary is more likely (17 th March), or be relieved that the risk is going down (12th march?)

IS the arrival of the Policing costs bill for the coming year from the County Council between the two dates responsible for the difrent tone and intent of the two reports? Or do the Eastbourne police force have no idea whether we are more or less at risk from burglary than a year ago.

I think these local government bodies as well as central government should stop the culture of 'spend your budget or you will lose it' As Taxpayers we should see more detail of what they waste our money on. I think you would be suprised, as with the MP's expenses, what they waste our money on year after year after year after year...........