ACS

The Home Office have released the quarterly update for crime in England and Wales to December 2008.

Of the report, Home Office Minister Vernon Coaker said: "Since 1997, overall crime has fallen by 39 per cent, violence is down by 40 per cent and burglary is down by 55 per cent. Today's statistics show that overall crime is stable or falling and the risk of being a victim remains historically low. Violent crime, robbery, sexual offences and firearm offences continue to fall and I particularly welcome the 12 per cent fall in knife related murder.

"But we know we are facing some new challenges now and are focusing our experience and knowledge to tackle these head-on. That is why we have already responded to early concerns about burglary - working with police, charities, DIY stores and insurers to increase enforcement activity, target repeat offenders and give practical advice to help people secure their homes.

"There is an apparent rise in theft from the person shown by the BCS, although the comparable recorded crime figure has fallen by four per cent. We are also seeing falls in both robbery and vehicle crime. Levels of all household and acquisitive crime remain stable. Record numbers of police already have the flexibility and resources to tackle local crime priorities and ensure that we can help to keep crime down."

ACS will continue to press Government for tougher sanctions for shop thieves.