Suffolk PCC opposes six-force regional police merger

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 11:32 · Archive

Suffolk's police and crime commissioner has opposed proposals for a six-force regional merger, fearing it would weaken rural policing.

Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore has opposed proposals to create a six-force regional merger across the eastern region. Speaking at a public meeting in Newmarket, he warned that such a structure could weaken rural policing and damage Suffolk Constabulary. He said: 'Over my dead body would I support a merger of six forces' and emphasised that rural counties such as Suffolk require a strong local focus.

The wider proposals reportedly involve reducing England and Wales' 43 police forces to nine or 12 regional forces, whilst pooling technology, back-office services and specialist expertise. Mr Passmore said such a larger force could weaken accountability and responsiveness in the county.

As an alternative, Mr Passmore said he is exploring closer collaboration and a possible merger with Norfolk Constabulary. He described this as 'far preferable' to becoming one member of a six-force regional structure. Suffolk and Norfolk already share about £50 million of collaborative services each year, including roads policing, armed response, major investigations and back-office functions. Mr Passmore has told the Home Secretary of his opposition to the regional merger proposals.

How it is being reported

• 'Over my dead body' warning as mega police force threatens SuffolkSuffolk PCC Tim Passmore opposes a six-force regional mega force, warning it could weaken rural policing, instead proposing closer Norfolk collaboration.Ipswich Star · 20 Oct, 11:00
• 'Over my dead body' warning as mega police force threatens SuffolkSuffolk PCC Tim Passmore opposes a six-force regional mega force, warning it could weaken rural policing, instead proposing closer Norfolk collaboration.East Anglian Daily Times · 20 Oct, 11:00

In this story: Tim Passmore · Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner · Suffolk Constabulary · Norfolk Constabulary · Suffolk · Norfolk · Newmarket

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