Way of tackling extremism
identify people who may at risk of radicalisation or who are engaging in extremist behaviour. But we want it to be an effective programme and one that works for us here.
“We need to re-focus the whole idea, I would say re-name it as well and get back to where we should be.
“And first and foremost, let’s be honest, place the emphasis on communities, all communities, to say ‘provide the information we need to keep everyone safe.’ Then have clear protocols between those communities and the police and security so everyone knows what we need to do.
“And I think we could have something even more valuable here in Greater Manchester if we work that way.”
In the wide-ranging interview with M.E.N. political editor Jennifer Williams, Mr Burnham reiterated calls for more police officers Greater Manchester’s streets.
He confirmed a recruitment drive has already begun for officers, but said new recruits would number in their hundreds.
“It will not in any way cover the 2,000 police officers we have lost as a result of government cuts,” he added.
Mr Burnham also dismissed claims from home secretary Amber Rudd that police numbers were not the issue with regards to terror.
He said: “Of course police numbers are the issue. They are the first thing we think of when we ask ‘do we feel safe? Do we have enough resources to protect all communities?’
“We’re doing what we can to get more police out on the beat and we’re recruiting more.
“But we cannot continue to have government cuts on our funding.
“There is a general view in Greater Manchester that the cuts have gone too far.
“This will be a modest increase and if we were to get back to previous levels that would need government support.”