Local Liberal Democrats have welcomed the new alliance between the Warwickshire and West Mercia police forces, which will save a total of £30 million a year while protecting front line services. This points the way forward for local councils struggling to deal with the effects of the severe funding cuts imposed by central government.

Stratford Lib Dem councillors Peter Moorse and Richard Cheney have tabled the following motion for debate at the next meeting of Stratford District Council on the 21st October:

Council congratulates the Warwickshire Police on their alliance with
West Mercia and notes that sharing resources is expected to save £30
million by 2015, thus reducing the need for police service cuts in this
district.
Council also notes the statement by the Leader of the Conservative group
at Warwickshire County Council that spending cuts of £92 million over the
next four years are required by the county council. These cuts will
clearly have a significant impact on the residents of this district.
Council urges Warwickshire County Council and Stratford District Council
to examine carefully the example set by the police, to see what lessons
can be learned on cost saving.