WA Libs pledge to protect police officers MANDATORY blood-testing for offenders who bite or spit at police officers is the latest election campaign commitment to be unveiled by Western Australia's incumbent Liberals. Since January 24, the party has announced two mandatory sentencing legislation proposals. And in September, mandatory sentencing for assaults on police became law. On Thursday, Police Minister Liza Harvey said the blood-testing would provide peace of mind for police, who had a challenging job. Ms Harvey also announced a Liberal plan to spend $10.5 million over four years on payments to police officers to lure them to difficult regional locations. An existing scheme in the Kimberley and the Pilbara had proven successful, she said. "Police officers posted to regional locations work in difficult situations, often with a more limited support network of colleagues and general amenities," Ms Harvey said. They often face additional work stress when there are delays in filling vacancies alongside them.