Local politicians have reacted to government plans for a new National Police Service, described as a “British FBI”.

In parliament today, Shabana Mahmood said the new reforms would address counter-terror, fraud and organised crime investigations, freeing local forces to focus on everyday crime.

The Home Secretary said NPS is not about saving money but about bringing together work currently done by the National Crime Agency and regional organised crime units.

Other reforms include cutting in the number of police forces from 43 to 12, mandatory licences for all officers, and increased ministerial powers to intervene where police or fire chiefs are deemed to be failing.

Local reactions have been mixed. Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Donna Jones, said: “The Government claims merging forces will save money.

“I believe the real reason for announcing these reforms is because, 18 months ago, the government laid out plans to introduce 13,000 more neighbourhood police officers across England and Wales. But they’ve failed as they can’t find the funding.

“I’m not against some form of police reform but I think reducing force numbers from 43 to a reported 12 would result in forces which are far too big and unruly.

“Police performance would slip as a consequence. Another concern for me is the government’s proposed timescale. They want this done by the end of the next term of parliament which is 2034. That’s too far down the road and will distract core policing.

“It’s also a real shame they’re taking the voice away from local people. The successors of Police and Crime Commissioners need to be able to hold police forces to account on behalf of the public. The police should not be marking their own homework and this change must be balanced with robust scrutiny.

“I want to reassure people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that having local officers out in the heart of our communities remains one of my top priorities.

“Policing must be rooted in the communities it serves if we are to be as efficient as possible in responding to crime.”

Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan said he welcomed the “ambitious package” of reforms.

“This is a serious plan to strengthen policing in our country, after it was hollowed out by the Conservatives over 14 years.

“Plans, which will rightly be consulted upon, should lead to fewer, stronger police forces that will improve capability, improve outcomes and improve public trust. Local accountability and neighbourhood policing will be central to the reforms.

“Rebuilding public trust in our community starts with strong local policing. These reforms will empower local forces to respond more effectively to everyday crime and anti-social behaviour.”