§ Sir Robert SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the aims and remit of the proposed review of police force structures in Scotland. [60447]
§ Mr. McLeishWhen my right hon. Friend announced earlier this year that there was to be a review, he made it clear that the aim was to provide the Scottish Parliament with information on which to make a sound decision on whether the current number of forces in Scotland is right for the future. The process will involve a period of information gathering on the financial costs and benefits of a change in the number of forces. This will be followed by the issue of a consultation document which will allow all interested parties to give their views on the issue. The results of the consultation will be made available to the Scottish Parliament.