Over £300,000 is spent annually by the Lincolnshire Police force on translations services in 49 different languages, which amounts to £900 per day. The force is required to provide interpretation and translation assistance to anyone who is arrested or detained and cannot speak or understand the English language.
Police spokesman Stuart Binn believes this service is vital with some of the languages translated being Vietnamese and Bulgarian. Since April 2008, £190,000 has been spent supplying translation services and from April 2007 to April 2008, the amount spent was £317,421.
According to a police spokesperson, "We have a duty of care to victims and witnesses and to ensure that alleged offenders receive fair treatment under the criminal justice system - this can only be achieved through clear communication."
Despite the high cost, the interpretation and translation services provided by the force are necessary and they will be continue to be offered as long as they are needed.
25 November 2008
