Where will drinkers go?

Katy Bourne, in her role as Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, suggests that one way among several to curb nuisance public drinking in Eastbourne is to have ‘more’ police officers on the streets.

More, indeed? Does that mean we have some already? I’ve never seen any. In fact, when I attempted to find a police station recently, I couldn’t see one of those either.

Meanwhile, drinkers congregate at their leisure under the pier and at other spots in town, preventing locals and tourists alike from enjoying themselves.

MP Stephen Lloyd, too, has promised to push to have the problem drinkers moved. But to where exactly? If they are moved on they will assemble elsewhere.

Not a problem that will be fixed by words. Cash might help – in a small way – but Bourne and her Conservative cohorts can be assured of keeping that part of the solution away from the table.

And, please , what is the exact point of a Police and Crime Commissioner? Another public mouthpiece paid by the taxpayers? Working with our partners and other interested parties to solve a pressing need blah, blah ... God, anyone could write the script.