HC Deb 16 September 2003 vol 410 cc663-4W
Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what recent measures have been taken to cut crime rates in Romford by the Metropolitan police. [128376]

Ms Blears

The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis informs me that the Borough Commander for Havering and his senior management team continue to police Havering borough using intelligence-led policing, focusing on crime hot spots within the borough. An example of one of these initiatives, which began on 5 September 2003, is an operation which targets street robbery, disorder and assault and involves the co-operation of Havering borough council and the British Transport Police. A further initiative has been introduced whereby one sergeant and seven constables patrol outside nightclubs in Romford on both Friday and Saturday nights to reduce disorder. The Metropolitan police believe that this has helped to reduce disorder and provide reassurance in the town centre.

Since 1 April this year, figures provided by the Metropolitan police indicate that total notifiable offences in Havering borough have been reduced by 4.3 per cent. and burglary has been reduced by 25.4 per cent.

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he had with the Metropolitan police in the London borough of Havering in July. [128380]

Ms Blears

While I had no discussions with the Metropolitan police of the London borough of Havering in July, I did meet the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service on 16 July. This meeting was one of a series held throughout the year which focus on the whole of the Metropolitan police area.

Mr. Rosindell

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what discussions he has had with the Metropolitan Police in the London Borough of Havering during the past 12 months. [128403]

Ms Blears

I have had no meetings with the Metropolitan Police in the London Borough of Havering during the past 12 months. I have regular bilateral meetings with the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service.