Total revenue provision for policing grants in 2009-10 is almost £9.5 billion, an overall increase of 2.8 per cent. over 2008-09. The main element is general formula grant (£8.3 billion), which can be spent entirely at the discretion of police authorities—so the amount they spend on tackling wildlife crime is their decision.
Chief constables and police authorities have maximum flexibility to make best possible use of resources to maintain the historically high number of police officers and have the right workforce balance they need to deliver local priorities.
The Home Office takes wildlife crime seriously and has contributed £150,000 in 2009-10 towards the costs of the National Wildlife Crime Unit, which provides expert support to forces in investigation and enforcement of wildlife crime.