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English Police Forces Bill

A Bill to reduce the number of police forces in England to ten; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

2 May 2012

In Plain English

AI-generated

The English Police Forces Bill would reduce the number of police forces in England to ten and set out how those mergers should happen, along with related changes to policing governance. It signals a substantial reorganisation of policing across England, with other reforms described as 'connected purposes'.

Key Points

Aims to reduce the number of police forces in England to ten.
Creates the framework for mergers, including how decisions are made and how staff, assets and budgets are reorganised.
Affects policing governance and accountability, potentially changing roles for Police and Crime Commissioners and local authorities.
Requires legislative and funding changes to support the mergers and related reforms.

Progress

The bill is currently at the 2nd reading in the House of Commons, where MPs discuss its general principles. It will then move to committee stage for detailed examination and amendments.

Who is affected?

Police officers and civilian staffPeople living in England who are served by the policePolice and Crime Commissioners and other local policing governance bodiesLocal authorities and councils that fund or oversee policing

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - English Police Forces

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

English Police Forces Bill | TrackPolitics