The SDLP spokesman on policing, Mr Alex Attwood, last night welcomed "key contributions" to a new beginning for policing in the Northern Ireland Secretary's announcement in the House of Commons.
Mr Attwood emphasised the need for "every citizen, including 18-year-olds on the Falls Road, to participate in the state, and that includes the police service".
He said the British government's response to the Patten Commission "helps to move the North further down the road of a new beginning for policing".
The SDLP was anxious that yesterday's statement be followed quickly by substantive legislation which gave life to the Patten recommendations.
He said it was the SDLP's view that a transformation of policing could be, and was, supported by a large and growing majority of the people in Northern Ireland.
Mr Attwood said he recognised the hurt among widows and relatives of RUC members, but while admitting it was a painful day, he added it was also a "gainful" day.
Highlighting the need for clarification of the proposed legislative timetable, he expressed the need for a firm date when the new police board and police service will become operational.
Mr Attwood called on those in leadership positions to take the opportunity to secure a service which could earn the allegiance of all.
Speaking earlier, the party leader, Mr John Hume, said: "I have stated very clearly that I want to see a new police force, and membership should come from all sections of the community."
The SDLP Assembly member for East Antrim, Mr Danny O'Connor, said: "Rather than see this as the destruction of a Protestant police force, it's the re-creation of a police force acceptable to all."
Sinn Fein has declined to issue a definitive response to the British government's proposals for police reform. Mr Gerry Kelly, the party's MLA for North Belfast, said he wanted to see the format of legislation implementing the changes before commenting.
Pressed on the likelihood of republicans recommending the measures to supporters, Mr Kelly said they would have to see if a "real police service" was established.
"When we see the legislation we will know exactly what we are dealing with, and we will have further comment at that time."