Wiltshire PCC quits police air service board

Wiltshire's PCC Philip Wilkinson has stepped down from the National Strategic Board of the National Police Air Service after more than four years.

Mr Wilkinson said he could no longer support what he described as a disproportionate financial burden on smaller police forces and raised concerns about value for money and efficiency.

He said he decided to resign after being informed NPAS had ordered two more helicopters in addition to seven already commissioned.

Across the south west, the total cost of helicopters, fixed wing aircraft and associated bases is expected to be £6.82 million during the 2025/26 financial year, with Wiltshire Police contributing around £595,000.

Mr Wilkinson argued that rural forces like Wiltshire are paying significant amounts towards capabilities that are rarely used locally.

He said advances in drone technology and artificial intelligence offered a more flexible and cost-effective alternative for many incidents.

The PCC stressed that helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft would still have a role in policing, but said future investment needed to better reflect technological change and modern policing demands.

He also called for a national review of police air support arrangements to ensure the service is more efficient and aligned with future policing needs.

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