Last night (15 October) it was confirmed that only two police front counters will remain open 24/7 across London – meaning Southwark’s last remaining counter at Walworth will have its hours reduced.
Liberal Democrats had repeatedly pressed the London Mayor and the Metropolitan Police for public clarity around whether it would continue 24/7 or not, but received vague answers avoiding the question.
The London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, had made a manifesto promise to have a 24/7 police front counter in every borough. There will now only be 2 that remain open at all hours, and 10 will be closed completely.
Commenting, Southwark Liberal Democrat Group Leader Cllr Victor Chamberlain said:
“The confirmation that Southwark’s last remaining police front counter will now effectively be closing after dark will come as devastating news to our community.
Police stations are often a vital safe haven for women and vulnerable groups – so to shutter the doors at night will actively put people in harm’s way.
This is a betrayal of Londoners by Sadiq Khan, who just last year promised a 24/7 front counter in every borough, and shows beyond doubt that Labour cannot be trusted on community safety.
Liberal Democrats continue fighting to keep Walworth front counter open 24/7, with our petition still live on our website”
