A CALL for a united campaign from councils across Yorkshire against plans to merge the region's police forces has been made by Kirklees.
And members of all parties on the council hope their efforts will bear fruit.
There was all-party backing at this week's council meeting for the call to urge local authorities to reject the merger proposals.
West Yorkshire, one of the country's biggest and busiest forces, is poised to be merged with the North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and Humberside forces.
The controversial plan is being pushed by the Home Office.
But Kirklees Council leader Clr Robert Light said the proposals were opposed by the West Yorkshire force and its police authority, as well as other councils.
He added: "We hope other councils in the region will join the opposition to the merger proposals, so that the Yorkshire and Humber region can be a powerful voice against the merger plans.
"The objections made have been constructive and the Government should look again at its proposals and retain West Yorkshire as a police force in its own right.
"West Yorkshire meets the Government's criteria in terms of a minimum size for a free-standing police force.
"The Greater Manchester force is being retained in its own right. West Yorkshire merits similar treatment.
"Merging the forces would be disruptive and costly.
"There would be an increase in council tax, but no increase in service.
"In fact, it would probably be the reverse as West Yorkshire is considered the best- performing police force in the region.
"There would be a loss of local identity and an impact on public confidence."
