§ 30. Miss McIntoshTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what measures he plans to take to support farm and neighbourhood watch schemes. [116818]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeA partnership approach between local communities and the police is the most effective means of tackling crime in rural areas. Neighbourhood and farm watch schemes are excellent examples of this partnership approach in action and we take every opportunity to encourage their establishment. Watch schemes have a valuable role to play in the local crime and disorder reduction partnerships established by the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.