PRIME Minister Tony Blair has come under fire in the Commons over the funding of Greater Manchester Police.

Lib Dem MP for Cheadle Mark Hunter asked Mr Blair at Question Time yesterday if he was aware that the force has already lost 216 officers and is reportedly facing a financial shortfall of up to £27m over the next two years.

Mr Blair replied: "Actually the police in Greater Manchester and elsewhere are getting significant increases in the amount of funding available.

He continued: "I think I am right in saying there have been almost 1,000 extra police officers in Greater Manchester since we came to office.

"In addition to that of course there are community support officers."