The government grant to Suffolk Constabulary has been cut by £1million more than expected – but Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore is hoping to get extra money from other sources to help modernise its administration.

The police had expected to see its grant cut by 3.3% this year, but in the event the direct grant from the government has come down by 4.8%.

However that is because extra money has been allocated to national funds to boost innovation – and to boost the Independent Police Complaints Commission and the Inspectorate of Constabulary.

Mr Passmore said he hoped Suffolk would be able to bid for some of the innovation money available to help make it more efficient over the next few years.

He said: “This is a small difference and something I am relatively relaxed about. I will be talking with officers to see how we go forward from here.”

Detailed budget planning had already started, but the budget process will get more hectic once the new year arrives.

Mr Passmore said: “Over the past year I have met with, and listened to, people right across the county to gauge expectations of their police service, and the message is clear.

“They want me ensure that we get the very most from the resources available, to cut duplication and work with others to get the very best value for Suffolk. I will work with the Chief Constable to ensure this is achieved.

“We expected the level of savings for next year to be significant, there are no surprises there. The financial situation is challenging, but I can assure council tax payers in Suffolk that I will ensure that every penny spent by the Constabulary is carefully considered.”

He added: “It’s now up to us to make sure Suffolk benefits from these new developments and we continue to deliver our Police and Crime Plan in an effective way.”