Mr. Alan Williamsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has received the report of the local inquiry into the objection on behalf of the Exeter Watch Committee to the proposed amalgamation of the police areas of Devon and Exeter; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsI have received the report of Mr. P. M. O'Connor, Q.C. He is satisfied that a combined force would have advantages for the areas of Devon and Exeter and recommends that amalgamation should take place. I have decided that amalgamation should proceed and I am in touch with the two police authorities.
I am arranging for the report to be published as soon as possible and meanwhile I have placed copies in the Library.