Matthew Scott, Conservative Candidate for Police and Crime Commissioner, has criticised Ann Barnes for presiding over cuts to firearms officers during her time in office (9 January).
Home Office figures showed that between March 2013 and March 2015, the number of firearms officers in Kent fell from 72 to 66, whereas nationally, the number had increased.
Matthew said “This is a vital matter of public safety and security. However, Ann Barnes has presided over a cut in the number firearms officers, whilst there was an increase in press and HR staff instead. She also moved out the firearms licensing team to make way for her offices. She needs to explain why she is asking taxpayers to pay for her cuts to a vitally important service.”
You can see Matthew's website at: http://matthewscott.org.uk/