The science and technology secretary has urged police to "do their bit" to "embrace change" as the Home Office and the Treasury continue negotiations over this week's Spending Review.
Peter Kyle told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg that "every part of society was struggling" and the chancellor was facing pressure from all sectors including doctors and universities to increase funding.
He said the review would boost spending for schools and scientific research but declined to rule out a squeeze on policing.
Conservative Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said he was concerned about police numbers being cut and urged the government to protect their budget.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves will set out on Wednesday how much money each government department will get to spend for the next three to four years.
Earlier this week Reeves warned not every government department would "get everything they want" and said there were "good things I've had to say no to".
