Police and fire reform
Published on Tuesday 17th January 2012
Bill launched in Galashiels
Council Leader David Parker joined Scottish Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill in Galashiels to mark the publication of the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Bill.Changes will see Scotland's eight police forces and eight fire services merged into two single national bodies.
Local authorities will approve plans for their area and more councillors will have a say than under the current arrangements.
The services will be independent, with no operational control by Ministers, but subject to Parliamentary scrutiny.
The Bill was launched at Galashiels Police and Fire Stations, where Cllr Parker and the Cabinet Secretary met local officers.
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