The proposed merger is part of a major reorganisation

Home Secretary Charles Clarke has proposed joining the forces as part of a reorganisation of policing in the UK.

Cumbria Chief Constable Michael Baxter and police authority chairman Reg Watson met the Home Office and Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary.

They said more meetings are being held to decided about a voluntary merger.

Among the matters being discussed are set-up costs and governance issues within restructuring.

In a statement they said: "Further meetings and discussion are to be held during this week to additionally clarify and progress matters.

"This will enable the two police authorities to take an informed decision on whether or not to offer a voluntary merger at their respective full police authority meetings on 24 February."