§ 2. Mr. RammellIf he will make a statement on the proposed statutory role for local councils in tackling crime. [30338]
§ Mr. MichaelThe Crime and Disorder Bill will create radical change by requiring local authorities and the police jointly to conduct an audit of local crime and disorder, to draw up a local strategy and to agree targets for cutting crime. This process will involve local people and a wide range of other key partners. Other changes will help cut youth crime and strengthen the powers of the courts.
§ Mr. RammellIn my constituency, much good community safety work has been undertaken by the local council and the police working in partnership on issues such as closed circuit television and on developing policies to deal with racial harassment and domestic violence. The most recent development is a one-stop drop-in centre to provide advice and information for young people. All that has been achieved by good will. Does the Minister agree, however, that much more could be achieved if the principle of joint working were underpinned by statutory force?
§ Mr. MichaelYes, and that is what we shall provide in the Crime and Disorder Bill, which the House will shortly have the opportunity to debate. A partnership between the police and each local authority and local community has been welcomed by all parties.
§ Mr. ClappisonThe Minister will recall that, when shadow Home Secretary, his right hon. Friend the Prime Minister promised to provide more places in local authority secure accommodation. How many new places have been provided? Have any been provided?
§ Mr. MichaelI think that the hon. Gentleman is getting confused. What happened was that in February 1991 the Conservative Government promised to provide 171 additional places. That was later revised to 170, but they failed to provide them, and the places have still not been provided. We will keep our promises.