THE MP for Finchley and Golders Green has praised the Mayor of London after he announced an extra £42million funding to increase police numbers.

Boris Johnson’s allocation of cash will mean an end to the Metropolitan Police’s recruitment freeze which was imposed last September.

It is estimated the funding boost will result in London having around 32,500 uniformed police officers by May 2012 and an additional 413 in the transport network.

Youth crime will also be targeted, with an additional 70 officers working in schools.

Mr Freer said: “Boris’ move means a boost in full-time police officer numbers and most importantly that Barnet’s Safer Neighbourhood Teams are protected.

“Governing in these difficult economic times means making tough decisions, but Boris has shown that he will deliver what is most important for our area and our city.”