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Police to get 'danger money'?

19/11/2007

Police officers could be offered up to £500 a year to patrol the most dangerous areas of Manchester.

The new bonus scheme, which has been criticised by the Greater Manchester Police Federation, needs approval from the Police Authority before it can be implemented.

Police chiefs hope that the taxable incentives will help drive down gang-related crime in areas like Moss Side and prevent officers seeking transfers to less dangerous parts of the city-region.

Chris Burrows, chair of the police federation chairman, said the bonus scheme - which could be offered from next September - is divisive as it means officers will be competing against each other.

The mooted scheme follows a visit to Moss Side by Gordon Brown who has promised severe punishment for people who are caught carrying firearms.

"If you are harbouring guns or have a gun in your possession, you will be sentenced with a very severe penalty for doing so," he said.

In September it was reported that Manchester police officers who turn up for work every day over a nine-month period are in with a chance of winning cash prices.

Police at a south Manchester division who refrain from taking time off sick are entitled to enter a draw, with the possibility of winning £500.