HC Deb 24 July 2002 vol 389 cc1468-9W
Mr. Tony Clarke

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will set out, with statistical information relating as directly as possible to Northamptonshire, the effects on the town of Northampton of his Department's policies and actions since 2 May 1997. [11282]

Mr. John Denham

The Home Office is working with individuals and communities to build a safe, just and tolerant society enhancing opportunities for all and in which rights and responsibilities go hand in hand and the protection and security of the public are maintained and enhanced. Detailed information on the impact of Home Office policies across the full range of responsibilities is set out in Home Office Annual Reports. A copy of the most recent report, Home Office Annual Report–2001–02, is available in the Library. Information on crime levels is contained in the publication: "Crime in England and Wales 2001–02", which can be found in the Library.

These statistics provide information specifically relating to Northampton and to Northamptonshire. A number of Home Office initiatives funded under the Crime Reduction Programme will have an impact on crime levels in Northamptonshire, including some with specific reference to Northampton, for example;

Reducing Burglary Initiative: Three schemes funded to the value of £178,390, including a £72,000 scheme in Northampton. Targeted Policing Initiative: A county-wide scheme for tackling vehicle crime using Automatic Number Plate Reading technology—£1,095,000.

Violence Against Women: a £225,706 domestic violence project in Northampton.

Close Circuit Television (CCTV): £383,285 on three CCTV schemes covering Northampton town centre, car parks and housing estates.

In addition, funding of £410,200 under the Communities Against Drugs Initiative and £80,608 under the Safer Communities Initiative has been made available to the Northampton Crime and Disorder reduction partnership. Northamptonshire partnerships have also received £51,500 under the Partnership Development Fund.

Further information on the Home Office and its policies is published on its website. (www.homeoffice.gov.uk).