NEW Conservative Party leader Boris Johnson visited Solihull days after being elected Prime Minister.
Solihull MP Julian Knight introduced Mr Johnson at a surprise Solihull Conservative Association meeting on Friday (July 26).
The main topic of conversation – aside from Brexit of course – was Mr Johnson’s pledge to recruit 20,000 new police officers.
The new PM chose Solihull as one of the first destinations on his voyage around the country, as he acquaints himself with the Tory members who elected him.
He also visited parts of Birmingham over the weekend as many speculated whether his campaigning has begun in preparation for a potential general election.
Conservative Councillor Mark Parker said: “Thank you Boris Johnson for visiting Solihull Conservative Association.
“I am honoured and proud that this is the first one you have visited as PM.
“As Churchill once said… roll up your sleeves and let’s get the business of government done.”
Tory councillor Katy Blunt added: “I felt very lucky to have the opportunity to hear directly from the PM himself about his plans for the UK, especially his thoughts on police numbers.
“I noticed that locally the police are already recruiting, so I look forward to welcoming some new officers to Solihull under chief superintendent Lee Wharmby’s fantastic leadership soon.”
Conservative West Midlands mayor Andy Street tweeted: “I really welcome the Prime Minister’s pledge to recruit an additional 20,000 police officers, and that he has come here to reinforce that commitment.
“Our communities want to feel safe and live crime free, and these extra officers will go a long way to making that happen.”
Consecutive opponents point out 20,000 police officers have been cut under Tory-led governments since 2010.
Labour claims the level of public spending cuts to address the national deficit have been extreme ‘austerity’ measures and an unnecessary political choice.
