Star comment: Steering a safe course is vital
A simple test will be applied to West Mercia’s decision to pull out of the Central Motorway Policing Group. It is this: Will the decision make our roads safer?
If the answer is yes, then people will no doubt welcome the decision. If it is no, then our authorities must think again.
The force covering Shropshire has been a part of the Central Motorway Policing Group for many years and it works to save lives, reduce accidents and reduce harm on our roads.
Those who manage resources locally believe they will be better equipped to deal with incidents if they have the flexibility to be more parochial. They believe working in a different way will allow them to provide a more nimble and efficient service.
If they are correct, the decision will be good news for motorists. AWe know how dangerous our motorways can be and anything that reduces the propensity for accidents will be welcome.
We must hope that there is a smooth transition from the present situation, which has been in place since 1990, to the new system. Our police must continue to work cost-effectively to keep motorists safe on our busiest roads.
