A service under change: current issues in policing in England and Wales

Anticipates that over the next few years the police service in England and Wales is likely to experience significant changes in organization and management. Appraises major inquiries and legislation made following the 1979 government election, e.g., the Audit Commission for Local Government in England and Wales 1982. Looks at the structure and control of the police service, the Police and Magistrates’ Court Act 1994, the review of core and ancillary policing tasks established by the Home Secretary in 1993, and the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994. Concludes that the relationship between local accountability and central government control is of particular importance. Expects to see greater control exerted by the Home Office and a move away from democracy toward centralized power.