Despite issuing redundancy notices in the summer and facing government reductions in funding by 20%, Durham Police Authority says that front-line policing is a priority. The force must deal with £17.5m of cuts over the next four years. Peter Thompson, of the Police Authority, said of these "challenging" times: "It is now more important than ever that our diminishing resources are managed strategically, getting value for money in all areas." He continued: "Residents of County Durham and Darlington can be assured that front-line policing continues to be a priority for the authority."