GMP stays as is under plans to restructure the police service

Date published: 06/02/2006

Greater Manchester Police will remain as it is under Government proposals to restructure the police service in England and Wales.  The Home Secretary, Charles Clarke, announced his decision after a meeting with Chief Constable Michael Todd and Greater Manchester Police Authority Chair Derek Osbaldestin at the Home Office today (Monday 6 February).

“We are clearly pleased that the Government has continued to recognise GMP’s performance and capabilities in crime at all levels,” said Mr Todd.  “ We believe this is the best way forward for Greater Manchester and for the people who live here, work here or visit the area.”

The ability to tackle serious crime, especially where criminal networks cross geographical boundaries, is key to the Government’s proposals, an approach which CC Todd completely supports.

“It is clear that the future of policing does not lie with 43 Forces, but in a smaller number of larger strategic Forces which have the resources, capability and flexibility to tackle the demands of 21st century policing,” said Mr Todd.  “I believe these Forces will be able to work together more effectively to tackle the challenges of policing.”

GMP has achieved an excellent grading in its work to tackle serious and organised crime, a recognition by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary of the major improvements the Force has made.

“Knowing that the future of GMP as a Force is now agreed, we can continue to push for more improvement, less crime and more criminals brought to justice alongside our partners’” Mr Todd added.