Tom Morrison MP calls for policing fit for the future at Lib Dem Conference

Tom Morrison, MP for Cheadle, has spoken at the Liberal Democrat Autumn Conference in Bournemouth, backing a motion to deliver policing that is truly “fit for the future.”

In his speech, Tom highlighted the growing problem of crime and anti-social behaviour across the country, and the strain this is placing on local communities. He pointed to repeated cases raised with him by Cheadle residents, where gangs have caused serious disruption and local people feel let down because the police do not have the resources to act.

Tom said:

“Too often, constituents come to me when they feel they have nowhere else to turn. Whether it’s motorbikes racing through neighbourhoods or persistent damage to community buildings, the police are under-resourced and unable to respond effectively. Residents deserve better.”

The motion, passed by conference, sets out a clear plan for stronger local policing. It calls for police forces to be better equipped and better resourced, with a renewed emphasis on neighbourhood policing to tackle anti-social behaviour and restore public confidence.

Tom criticised both Conservative and Labour approaches to policing. The Conservatives, he noted, cut more than 10,000 police officers during their time in government, doing “serious, almost irreversible damage” to communities. Meanwhile, Labour’s “neighbourhood policing guarantee” has failed to deliver in constituencies like Cheadle.

Speaking after the debate, Tom said:

“This motion is about ensuring people like Brian and Adam – residents in Cheadle who have faced repeated anti-social behaviour – know that their police force is visible, effective, and able to act when it really matters. The Liberal Democrats are putting forward a plan that will deliver safer streets and rebuild trust in our justice system.”