Merger discussed by police authorities

Two police authorities are holding meetings to discuss a proposal to merge their two forces in a bid to save money over the next four years.

The chief constables of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire forces back the plans.

However, Policing Minister Nick Herbert advised the authorities to explore options for more collaboration before making any decisions on a merger.

Two other options will be discussed by the meetings of the police authorities which are being held separately.

Other options include both forces maintaining independence but continuing or expanding the collaboration of services.

However, the forces said this would result in extensive cuts in frontline police officer and police staff numbers across both forces.