A newly commissioned central communications centre is providing a single point of contact for the community. In spite of some problems, this centre allows local police resources to be despatched quickly and efficiently to where they are needed. During the year, a new scientific support facility was opened at Headquarters to meet the increasing demand for forensic examination of evidence. To remain at the forefront of scientific developments, we have entered into a partnership agreement with the University of Lincolnshire and Humberside. A new infrastructure means that all major sites are now connected by a high speed digital network.
Preparations are almost complete for the installation of several major national systems.
Another notable success, in December 2000, was the award, for the third successive occasion, of the Charter Mark. The Charter Mark is the Government's award scheme for recognising and encouraging excellence in public services. This Plan sets out our aims for next year and has been prepared after substantial consultation with our partners, individuals and other organisations. Included in it are the results of the first year of Best Value Reviews, together with the programmes for the next four years. We commend the Plan to you.