A ‘once in a generation opportunity’ for the region

THE Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has said the G7 summit will be a “huge opportunity” for the South West.

Alison Hernandez believes it will be a chance for the region to showcase both its assets and challenges when it hosts world leaders, and even to help build the region’s economy after Covid.

The Police and Crime Commissioner said: “The summit represents a once in a generation opportunity to raise awareness of Cornwall on a global scale, and will help the local economy build back better after Covid-19 lockdowns.

“It’s very exciting that major decisions with far-reaching and international implications will be being made right here on our doorstep.

“Cornwall’s incredible natural wealth and its long tradition of welcoming outsiders will make this a summit to be long remembered.

“But I also hope that world leaders are able to understand that there are communities in Cornwall that face significant challenges and reflect on those challenges and the challenges of people in a similar position across the world.

“Our force area now has a crime rate lower than all but one of 43 forces in England and Wales, but there is significant work to do to improve household income, job security and opportunities for local people here and elsewhere.”

She added: “I have every confidence that with the support measures put in place Devon and Cornwall Police and our partners will deliver a safe and successful event that our communities will be proud of and create memories that will last a lifetime.”