This is a petition from the residents of Gloucestershire, supported by my hon. Friends the Members for Cotswold (Mr. Clifton-Brown) and for Tewkesbury (Mr. Robertson) and Martin Horwood. It has been signed by 1,037 residents of Gloucestershire and the shadow Home Secretary.

The petition states:

The Petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons note the commendations bestowed upon the Gloucestershire Constabulary; the excellent quality of service that is provided by the Constabulary and the Constabulary's excellent capability to address criminality in Gloucestershire. The Petitioners further request that the House of Commons urge the Home Office to maintain the Constabulary as an independent force and give support to the Constabulary to continue its independent programme of development for the people of Gloucestershire.

And the Petitioners remain, etc.

To lie upon the Table.