Walworth police front counter to no longer be open 24/7, breaking Labour manifesto pledge
Last night (15th October), it was announced that there will only be 2 police front counters left open 24/7 across London, confirming that Walworth’s police front counter – the only one in Southwark – will have its hours reduced.
Liberal Democrats had repeatedly pressed the London Mayor and the Metropolitan Police for 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 harms way.
This is a betrayal of Londoners by Sadiq Khan, who just last year promised a 24/7 front counter in ever 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"