Police chiefs fear 28,000 jobs at risk

Police chiefs fear 28,000 posts, including 12,000 officers' jobs, will be lost in England and Wales as a result of the spending squeeze, it was disclosed last night.

Their private forecast follows the Home Office decision to cut police grants by 20 per cent over the next four years.

Ministers insist forces can save cash by greater efficiency, but the Association of Chief Police Officers said the austerity measures will cost the jobs of 12,000 frontline and 16,000 civilian staff.

Theresa May, the Home Secretary, publishes a report into police terms and conditions today.