WEST MERCIA MERGER WILL BE DIASTEROUS FOR LOCAL NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING - KEETCH

12.00.00am GMT Tue 7th Feb 2006

Local Liberal Democrat MP, Paul Keetch has learned it now looks likely that West Mercia Constabulary will be merged with a greater West Midlands Police Force.

In an opposition debate in the House of Commons last week, Mr Keetch made it clear to the Home Secretary, Charles Clarke MP that he was firmly against any merger with a West Midlands Force.

Commenting on yesterday's statement by the Home Secretary, Mr Keetch said "The Home Secretary has obviously not listened to the concerns of West Mercia Constabulary and the local community. I feel this decision will be disastrous for local neighbourhood policing in Herefordshire."

"Rural communities in the county are most likely to suffer in this merger as it is likely resources and police personnel will be channelled to more demanding urban areas."