Jack Dromey MP, Labour’s Shadow Policing Minister, responding to today’s crime statistics, said:
“The overall fall in crime is welcome, building on the falls delivered by the last Labour Government. However there is no reason for ministers to be complacent, these figures show a rise in many violent offences - including mugging and theft from the person - in parts of England and Wales.
“We have also seen a big increase in sexual offences, with rises in 40 out of 43 police force areas. Even allowing for the impact of historical investigations such as Operation Yewtree, it is clear that urgent action is needed.
“Retail crime is not counted in the survey - but on Monday the British Retail Consortium reported a nine-year high in shoplifting.
“As our police service is hollowed out, with more than 10,000 frontline police officers already axed, the thin blue line protecting our communities is being stretched still further.
“The Prime Minister and Home Secretary need to explain how they will get a grip on the rise in thefts and violent crime that is happening many parts of England and Wales.”