Officers to get mobile computers

All front-line officers are due to be trained to use PDAs by autumn 2009

Police in Wiltshire are among officers across England to get mobile computers to help record incidents from the scene of the crime.

A total of £30m is being given out by the government for forces across England for the project.

Wiltshire already has more than 100 officers involved in the scheme, which allows them to use the force's and the national police IT system remotely.

By autumn 2009 all front-line officers are expected to be trained to use PDAs.

Assistant Chief Constable of Wiltshire Andy Marsh said: "We are very pleased to have been given this funding which will enable us to continue training our front-line officers to work remotely increasing officer patrol time and in turn provide a better level of service to the public.

"The money will allow us to continue to roll out mobile information devices between now and March 2010.

"They will be targeted at neighbourhood policing and response functions, and it will have a significant impact upon policing visibility, which will in turn translate into greater public confidence, as well as improved officer morale."