Knife Crime and Serious Violence 2022-11-14
2022-11-14
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Stockton experienced an incident where a house was targeted by two men armed with dangerous tools, threatening the safety of residents. This reflects broader issues in Teesside.
I watched footage from Stockton showing two men using a chainsaw to break into a house and smashing windows. Who knows what would have happened if they had entered? These are organised criminals targeting communities for illegal drug trade. Cleveland police need additional resources after losing hundreds of officers since 2010.
I agree that such crimes are despicable, those who commit them should be pursued, prosecuted and imprisoned. I recently met Steve Turner, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland, and discussed this issue with him.
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Assessment & feedback
The question specifically asked about resources and police numbers, but the answer did not address these aspects directly.
Acknowledged The Severity Of Crime
Met With Commissioner To Discuss
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Harrow has seen an 18% increase in knife crime incidents, leading to serious injuries including three people being stabbed and hospitalized.
There have been significant increases in knife crime cases with severe outcomes. We need both a robust police response and the courts to enforce strict penalties for possession of knives. What measures is my right hon. Friend willing to consider further?
I agree that a robust police and court response are necessary; currently, there is a 9% reduction in national knife crime since pre-pandemic levels. I am willing to discuss additional measures with my hon. Friend.
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Assessment & feedback
Acknowledged the problem but did not commit to further action on sentencing rules.
Discussed Current National Statistics
Offered To Discuss Further
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Operation Deter in Milton Keynes aims at imprisoning individuals found with knives. A Knife Angel is visiting the area to raise awareness.
Alongside Operation Deter, we need strong legislation and policing strategies, as well as working closely with local communities. Will my right hon. Friend support the visit of the Knife Angel to Milton Keynes?
I agree that initiatives like the Knife Angel are vital and funded through specific streams, and I commend their work.
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Assessment & feedback
The question asked for specific support for the Knife Angel's visit, but only received a general statement of agreement.
Praised Initiatives
Noted Funding Streams
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Stockton experienced an incident involving criminals targeting a house with dangerous tools. This reflects broader issues of police resource shortages since 2010.
A recent security camera footage showed two men using chainsaws and hammers to break into a home, threatening the safety of residents. Cleveland needs more police resources after losing hundreds of officers since 2010.
I agree that these crimes are despicable and those responsible should be pursued, prosecuted and imprisoned. I recently met Steve Turner, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address specific resource needs or police numbers directly.
Acknowledged Severity
Met With Commissioner
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
There is an increase in the incidence of machete use on streets, raising concerns about their sale legality.
In September, I asked a then Home Office Minister why it's legal to buy a machete at 18. The serious weapons review is looking into this matter; when will it conclude and what actions will be taken to ban the sale of machetes?
I have sympathy for the point made regarding the use of machetes. I met Deputy Assistant Commissioner McNulty who proposed various ideas, and I am studying them closely to announce further steps soon.
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Assessment & feedback
Acknowledged seriousness but did not commit to a timeline or specific action.
Sympathised With Concerns
Met Commissioner For Advice
Response accuracy