THE decision-making body responsible for police policy is opening itself to public scrutiny.

Northumbria Police Authority is to publish the minutes of its meetings on the Internet.

Councillor Mick Henry, chairman of the authority, said: "This is an important step forward for the police authority.

"Listening to what the local people say and acting on what they tell us is one of the most important functions of this police authority.

"Now the public has the chance to see what we do with what they tell us and how important decisions affecting policing in our area are made."

Agendas and reports for every Northumbria Police Authority meeting, along with reports to the authority's committees and working groups, are also available for viewing online, via Gateshead Council's Docushare service.

Dozens of reports are already on the system, on subjects including Anti-Social Behaviour Orders and other initiatives to tackle crime, funding for police buildings, the Air Support Unit and members' allowances.

It also outlines the effect of Government policy on the Northumbria Police area and in-depth reviews of police activities.

To view the reports, visit the Northumbria Police Authority website at www. orthumbria-police-authority.org.