§ Mr. Ronnie CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what measures he proposes to tackle crime in Blyth Valley. [157297]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeThe Government are committed to tackling crime effectively, not only by reacting properly when it occurs and having the appropriate measures in place to deal with the perpetrators, but by preventing it happening in the first instance.
Recorded crime statistics published on 16 January 2001 showed that overall crime had fallen by 0.2 per cent. in England and Wales in the 12 months to September 2000. This compared with an overall fall in the Northumberland police area of 5.5 per cent.—the 10th consecutive year of crime reduction in that area. Data relating to the Blyth Valley Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership showed lower than average rates of offences per 1,000 population in key areas, including violence against the person, robbery, domestic burglary and theft of and from a vehicle.
We support the Partnership in its work to develop local strategies for reducing crime and disorder. Its local initiatives to bring about overall crime reduction and tackle drug-related crime, include targeted policing, Closed Circuit Television and Neighbourhood Warden schemes.
We have recently announced £60 million funding over the next three years to support Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships and £300 million to tackle drug-related problems, £220 million of which will be directed through the 376 Partnerships, to deliver community-based strategies.