Mr. Philip Dunne (Ludlow) (Con): In relation to the lack of foresight, does the hon. Gentleman agree that the idea of amalgamating basic command units into a regional structure is untested and highly vulnerable? In West Mercia, which the hon. Member for Hereford (Mr. Keetch) discussed, we have six basic command units. If amalgamated into a regional structure, the chief constable will have 30 basic command unit commanders. In virtually any other sphere of endeavour, maintaining the relationship for direct reports with 30 people, rather than six, is almost impossible. The chief constable will have a much less direct relationship with what is going on in local areas.
Mr. Heath: I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for that point. I know that he has experience of management structures and speaks with some authority.
