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The Problems The E.U. plans to divide England into 9 regions and the U.K. as a whole into 12, so that the U.K. and other E.U. countries could more easily be governed by European institutions, thus by-passing our national Parliaments and imposing further restrictions on our democratic rights. The proposal to merge County Police, Fire and Ambulance services was in line with this aim. These proposals would cost the taxpayer a heavy price. Just to regionalise the Police Services would cost at least £500 to £600 million according to the Association of Chief Police Officers. The smallest forces in the country were amongst the most efficient, the case for mergers was therefore not made. The proposal, expected to be announced shortly, to abolish County Councils and replace our system of local government with regional and unitary authorities, should be opposed wholeheartedly. The people of the North East had decisively rejected regional government. Our County boundaries had been in place for 1,000 years and were part of the fabric and traditions of our country and we believe they should remain. For hundreds of years we have all had pride in our county of origin and considered it to be an honour to represent our county in Sport, Politics and the county regiments of the army. All this will all disappear if the government gets it's way. If the proposed mergers of Police Forces into Regional bodies are carried out, the government plans to reduce Police Regular Manpower by approximately 24,000 personnel. Our Solution Our Party Aims (Ref: 2.2g of the Popular Alliance Aims) are to hold referenda both locally and nationally on key issues. These would be triggered by the electorate if 10% produced a petition for one, as they do in Switzerland. Abolishing county councils is a major constitutional change and should be decided by the electorate. All historic County boundaries will be restored and correctly signed. The present misleading signs illegally put in place by many County Councils with government approval will be removed. The Popular Alliance preferred policy would be to close down all regional assemblies. Return more powers to Parish and District/Borough Councils. Education, Health and Social Services could all be run and cater better for local needs. Excessive salaries and expenses paid to Town Hall officials and Councillors would be reduced. Popular Alliance – A Fresh Light On Politics
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