A study by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary has said several of the smallest forces in the UK should be combined with larger neighbours.

The MPs in the Midlands have signed a Commons motion urging ministers to extend the consultation period on the issue beyond 12 weeks.

They said "all strategic options" must be "fully considered".

Philip Dunne (MP for Ludlow), Daniel Kawczynski (Shrewsbury and Atcham), Owen Paterson (North Shropshire), Mark Pritchard (The Wrekin), Sir Nicholas Winterton (Macclesfield), Mark Harper (Forest of Dean), Bill Wiggin (Leominster) and Peter Luff (Mid Worcestershire) have signed the motion.

They have stressed the "excellent performance" of West Mercia.

Last week West Midlands, West Mercia, Warwickshire and Staffordshire Police submitted their responses to the restructuring of the country's forces.

All four included merging into a strategic regional body as one of their options, the strongest option according to West Midlands Police.

West Midlands, West Mercia and Staffordshire also include staying as they are as one their options.