HC Deb 01 December 1942 vol 385 c1008
69. Mr. Touche

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a position to make a statement regarding the schemes he is considering for the amalgamation of police forces under the Defence Regulations?

Mr. Peake

My right hon. Friend is consulting the police authorities concerned about proposals for amalgamation in a number of counties, and would prefer to postpone a statement until these consultations are concluded.

Mr. Craven-Ellis

Is not the announcement which has been made in "The Times" regarding the amalgamation of police forces considered to be inconsistent with the statement made by the Home Secretary in this House on 14th October?

Mr. Peake

My right hon. Friend is meeting a number of hon. Members this afternoon whose constituencies are in the counties concerned, and I have no doubt that matter will be discussed there.

Mr. Hutchinson

Is it the intention of the Home Secretary to consult the local authorities who are concerned in this matter?

Mr. Peake

I should require to have notice of that Question.