Public asked for views on policing shake-up

People have been asked for their views on proposals to merge police forces across England and Wales.

John Campion, West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), said he is seeking views on plans which could see "the biggest shake up to policing in 60 years".

The Conservative PCC's three-month consultation for residents in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Worcestershire, includes an online survey and events where people can share their opinions.

"Given that this is affecting a service our hardworking tax-paying public pay for, it is right that they are consulted," Campion said.

The independent review could see the current system of 43 forces reduced to 12 larger organisations.

Campion said: "I recognise the need to modernise and improve policing; however, it is right that any significant reform undertaken has the public support.

"I am concerned that the proposals to merge our existing police forces into fewer, but larger, police areas will be done with a perceived lack of public opinion."

The West Mercia PCC said he wanted to give communities the opportunity to have their say and to understand what these proposals mean for them.

He added he would present the feedback to the government to form part of its wider review.

The consultation ends on 15 June.

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