PLANS to outsource police support staff which threaten 1,100 jobs are a step closer after a police authority agreed to examine the proposals.

Hertfordshire Police Authority made the decision on Monday to look into the cost-cutting measure which would also hit Beds and Cambs.

David Lloyd, chairman of Hertfordshire Police Authority, said: “There is still a lot of work to be undertaken but I am confident that the recommendation that the police authority approved this morning will enable a full assessment of this potential outsourcing approach to be conducted.

“It is our duty to ensure that all possible resources are focused on front line delivery – to ensure that neighbourhood policing is maintained and that when the public need the police in an emergency they are available.”

The changes to human resources, finance and ICT are being considered to tackle the �73 million shortfall in police funding for the three counties imposed by cuts in government funding.

Unison last week slammed the plans claiming it is fighting a losing battle as there is only one option on the table.

For the proposal to move forward, Beds and Cambs Police Authorities will also need to agree the plan.

An existing Lincolnshire Police contract, which has private security firm G4S as the supplier, has inspired the plan as it offers the best value for money.

Should it be approved by all three police authorities or the Police and Crime Commissioners, who are due to be elected at the end of November, outsourced services could be in place by April 2013.