HC Deb 02 July 2001 vol 371 c55W
29. Mr. Heath

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what his policy is on maintaining the identity of county police forces. [642]

Mr. Denham

We have no present plans to change the procedures in the Police Act 1996 for the alteration of police areas.

We will consider on their merits any proposals from police authorities for amalgamations which might lead to more effective policing.

We will continue to encourage Chief Officers and police authorities to take advantage of opportunities for collaboration between forces where this will help deliver best value.