IAN Johnston, police and crime commissioner for Gwent, is to recommend today that the police precept should rise by £5.93 a year per household.

The Police and Crime Panel will discuss a proposed increase of 2.99 per cent to £204.16 when it meets this morning in Usk.

His office says that the increase is needed to offset the cuts in central government grants of £3.8 million.

The rise would mean that the average Gwent household (a council tax band D property) will pay £204.16 for their policing and related services during 2014/15 – an increase of £5.93 a year or 50p a month on what they currently pay.

Mr Johnston, said: “As highlighted in my police and crime plan, my vision is to prevent and reduce crime and antisocial behaviour, support victims of crime and ensure the continued delivery of a quality police service which provides value for money for the people of Gwent.

“This is why I am making these essential recommendations today. The preparation of the budget is an extensive exercise which is spread over several months and involves all parts of the service.”

The overall budget for policing and tackling crime in Gwent for 2014/15 is proposed to be set at £119,656,328.

The panel will review the proposals and make a report to the commissioner by February 8.

The full precept report can be found on the Gwent police and crime panel website at www.gwentpcp.org.uk