Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the progress made in tackling county lines drug operations.
What progress has the Department made on tackling county lines drugs gangs?
Since 2019, over £65 million has been invested in tackling county lines, including £40 million this year. This effort resulted in more than 1,500 lines being closed and over 7,400 arrests made. More than 4,000 vulnerable adults and children were safeguarded.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the impact of county lines drugs activity increasing in Cornwall, including Truro. She seeks assurance that the government will work with local authorities to address these issues.
I thank the Minister for his answer. A dealer who had been flooding towns across Cornwall was jailed recently. Can the Minister confirm that the Government are aware of the issues in Cornwall and assure me they will work with Alison Hernandez, the police and crime commissioner, and six Cornish MPs to address these problems, particularly how the Government can support the wider roll-out of Project ADDER?
Devon and Cornwall Police are working closely with key exporting forces such as the Metropolitan Police and Merseyside Police. The British Transport Police conducted a fixed-point pilot at Basingstoke Station that intercepted drugs bound for the MP's constituency.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm specific actions or commitments to work with Alison Hernandez, the police and crime commissioner, and six Cornish MPs.
Focused On The Impact Of Drugs Across The Whole Country
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP acknowledges successful disruptions to county lines in his constituency and seeks continued government support for market towns and rural areas.
There have been very successful disruptions to county lines in my Wiltshire constituency. Will the Minister continue the efforts on county lines, and ensure real support for local efforts at disruption?
Market towns and villages must work with large urban areas to grip the transport network. The police aim to take out those who perpetrate this 'business' while sitting comfortably at home in a city.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific details on how government efforts will support local disruptions below the regional level.
Focused On Working With Large Urban Areas
Response accuracy