News Date: Wednesday 21st December 2005
Tim supports police in reorganisation row
On Monday 19th December Parliament debated the Government's proposals to embark on a national restructuring programme for UK's the police authorities. If the Government get their way it looks likely that existing police authorities would merge to create a smaller number of larger forces.
The plans have been given a less than enthusiastic welcome by the Association of Police Authorities as there are grave concerns that an amalgamation of forces will lead to a loss of vital local knowledge and accountability.
Tim commented:
"In recent years Sussex police have been making real improvements in terms of overall performance and I am greatly concerned that the Government is rushing ahead with reorganisation without considering the serious financial and practical consequences that such significant changes would bring. Little thought seems to have been given to the relationship between any larger police force and the area it would serve. Plans to create a mega - force that would encompass Sussex, Surrey and Kent will take power away from local people and will make it increasingly difficult to serve local communities.
"I have called on both the Government, and on a local level, the Sussex Police Authority to base their decision on advice given by our local serving police officers and their leaders."
Ends
Note to editor:
1) To read a full text of Monday's Parliamentary debate please visit http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmhansrd/cm051219/debindx/51219-x.htm
Tim Loughton MP , 2005
