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<p>The safety of our elected representatives is essential to the security of our country.
All elected representatives should be able to participate fully in our democracy,
without fear for their safety and security. Instances of abuse, intimidation and criminal
offences are unacceptable, and that is why the Government will take every possible
step to safeguard the people, processes, and institutions upon which our democracy
relies.</p><p>On 28th February the Prime Minister announced the Government was investing
an additional £31 million in funding to protect the democratic process and our elected
representatives. Through this funding we are enhancing police capabilities, increasing
private sector security provision for those facing a higher risk, and expanding cyber
security advice to elected representatives.</p><p>The investment also enables the
expansion of the Operation BRIDGER network, which already provides support to MPs,
so that all elected representatives and candidates are given a dedicated, police contact
to liaise with on security matters, where needed. Through this network elected representatives
– including local councillors - will have access to security briefings from their
local force.</p><p>The funding is accompanied by a new Defending Democracy Policing
Protocol, agreed with police to enhance the safety of elected representatives, and
protect the UK’s democratic process from disruption. Further information about the
Protocol is available on GOV.UK.</p><p>The Defending Democracy Taskforce will continue
to review the effectiveness of arrangements for protective security of elected representatives.</p>
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