Dr Stoate has signed EDM 331 and EDM 512 in an effort to draw the attention of the Government to the concerns raised by officers living and working in Dartford, and written personally to the Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith. 

Dr Stoate is also joining a delegation of MPs who are to discuss their concerns about this matter in a private meeting with the Home Secretary.  Dr Stoate said, "I am highly appreciative of the work done by police officers in our community, and given the ever greater demands we place on them, I feel they should be able to expect a full and fair pay settlement.  I hope that by meeting with the Home Secretary, my colleagues and I will be able to express the concerns felt by our officers and indeed help to resolve this disupte."

In addition to voicing these immediate concerns, Dr Stoate also raised the possibility of holding a local 'police forum' to discuss policing related matters with officers who live and work in the constituency.  

"I would welcome the opportunity to meet with officers and discuss the issues that are of concern to them and the things that they believe could improve their jobs or ability to carryout their jobs," said Dr Stoate.

Dr Stoate is proposing to hold this forum during January or early February depending on interest.  If you would be interested in attending this event then please contact Dr Stoate's office.  Once a date has been selected you will be contacted with the time and location.