AMALGAMATION OF POLICE FORCES

Early day motion 1058, tabled 16 November 2005 by David Gauke (Conservative). Signed by 74 members.

That this House notes the recommendation of the O'Connor Report, produced by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary, that police forces employing fewer than 4,000 police officers should amalgamate with neighbouring forces; further notes that police authorities and police forces are required to identify their preferred option for amalgamation by 23rd December; further notes that the Government intends to complete the amalgamation of police forces by 2008; expresses its concern that the consultation period for these proposals is inadequate to address concerns such as the implications for local accountability, police morale, neighbourhood policing and transitional costs; and calls on the Government to address these concerns and extend the timetable for consultation prior to any amalgamation of police forces.

Signatures by party: Conservative 58, Liberal Democrat 9, Labour 3, Plaid Cymru 2, Independent 1, Respect 1.