SEXUAL offences are not always investigated properly by Greater Manchester because of a lack of staff in the unit, a report has found.

Her Majesty's Inspectorate Constabulary (HMIC) looked into the efficiency, effectiveness and legitimacy of GMP.

Their report, published today, also found concerns at the way the force investigates cases of domestic abuse, although said it had improved since an earlier inspection.

These shortcomings were found despite GMP drafting in extra detectives on to the Serious Sexual Offences Unit.

The "inconsistencies" are constraining GMP's scope to investigate serious sexual assaults.

Overall, the report found GMP to be good at cutting crime and preventing offending, and also hailed the force for its efficiency in the face of budget cuts.

GMP must slash its annual budget by £134 million by next year and has lost 1,500 officers since peak levels.

HM Inspector of Constabulary for the northern region, Mike Cunningham said: “GMP is good at partnership working, early intervention, and the management of offenders.

"The force has made excellent progress in challenging financial circumstances."

Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy said: "Officers and staff have made a significant contribution to improving lives in Greater Manchester and the report highlights four years of crime reduction.

"However, I am surprised that the report does not mention the biggest threat facing policing which is the continued financial challenge.

"Our neighbourhood officers are frustrated that they cannot spend enough time on their beats but with 1,500 fewer officers and almost 3,000 calls a day we have to make difficult choices."