CUMBRIA'S police and crime commissioner has stepped into the debate about police force mergers.

With national government finances under pressure, the idea has returned to the political agenda.

Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe has said police forces in England and Wales should merge and share resources with other emergency services.

He believes that with public finances facing ever increasing pressure and shrinking budgets, it is time to restart the merger debate.

But Richard Rhodes, the Conservative crime chief for Commissioner, has warned it would be unwise.

Mr Rhodes - in keeping with other Tories - believes Cumbria would lose if plans are resurrected to merge Cumbria Police with Lancashire Police, Greater Manchester and Merseyside for a super 'regional' force.

Mr Rhodes said in a statement: “Yes, there are budget challenges and yes it is getting harder to find additional savings but Cumbria is in a strong position.

“I firmly believe that any suggestion for the creation of a North West regional police force would be to Cumbria’s detriment.

"A regional police area based on Manchester and Liverpool will, inevitably mean a loss of resources to what will be seen as high crime areas as opposed to a low crime area such as Cumbria. "Strategically, a regional force will be making decisions that are not going to have any impact in Cumbria."

He added: “It is important that local authorities work together. There is more work that can be undertaken collaboratively in Cumbria and help to keep a sustainable economy.

“Cumbria some seven years ago looked at merging with Lancashire and that failed for a number of reasons. I have yet to see any evidence that persuades me that merger is a good option for the people of Cumbria.”

He added: "There has been much debate over the last few months about the potential for police forces to merge.

“The starting point in Cumbria is as a standalone force. The county’s police force is performing well. The level of crime is generally low and one of the lowest levels in the country. "Cumbria Constabulary has a dedicated work force that often live locally and are extremely dedicated to the local areas that they serve. These benefits should not be underestimated."