Plans to merge Surrey Police with the neighbouring Sussex force have been shelved after Home Secretary John Reid delayed the scheme.

Government plans to merge 43 forces across the country into as few as 17 were initiated by former Home Secretary Charles Clarke in February in an effort to better deal with serious crime and terrorism.

Mr Reid said any possible merger would be delayed until the autumn, after Parliament returned from its summer recess.

The MP told ministers he believed mergers were still the right way forward but more discussions were needed before any changes could be implemented.

Surrey County Council claims joining the forces would cost £27 million and would not address the under-funding of the police force.

Nick Skellett, leader of the council, said: "We should welcome the news this week that the Home Secretary has delayed any decision on the merger of our police force with Sussex. Exactly how long this delay might be, we can only speculate.

"But it gives us the time to ensure residents are aware of the potential consequences of the move and to make sure people have the facts to hand in order to make an informed decision."

Both Surrey and Sussex police forces welcomed the news, agreeing many questions had been raised by the merger proposals.

Peter Ainsworth, MP for East Surrey, said: "It is very good news that the Government has decided not to rush into these mergers that are opposed by the local people, the police and the council.

"I hope that the Home Secretary takes the opportunity to listen to the genuine concerns that have been raised and cancel these unnecessary plans altogether."

Surrey County Council has also raised concerns that any merger with Sussex, which has a higher crime rate than Surrey, might see resources diverted from the county.