The remit of policing has been steadily increasing over the last 10 years to encompass wider concerns such as antisocial behaviour and the prevention of radicalisation. Policing has enjoyed a period of rising government spending and resource increases, but with the economic instability ahead, re-analysis of priorities and purposes may be required. Is the recession an opportunity to re-think the role of policing?

The Forum considered some of the following questions:

• How the public’s expectations and confidence in policing be managed?
• Should the role and remit of the police be narrowed while making greater use of other public services?
• Should the structure and culture of the police be changed and if so, what benefits might this bring?
• What role does localism have to play?
• How can police services be more cost-effective?