Police Mergers

Posted in The Observer over the weekend was an article highlighting how millions of pounds will have to be raised through council tax increases to pay for a controversial merger of police forces ordered by the Home Office, which will possibly see a third of forces disappear.

The mergers of smaller rural forces with their neighbours are supposed to give them more clout to fight terrorism and organised crime.

Although long-term savings are expected with job losses among backroom civilian staff, police forces argue the short-term costs of redundancy payments, public consultation and reorganisation will be high.

However, forces have been told there is no government money to pay for the shake-up - and the Home Office has admitted council taxes are likely to rise 'for some forces' to pay for it. Three forces are now considering challenging the mergers in court.

To read the full article click police mergers and enjoy!