Latest national crime statistics show a further reduction in overall crime

National Police Chiefs' Council Lead for Crime Recording, Chief Constable Jeff Farrar said:

“It is encouraging to see a further reduction of overall crime in these latest crime figures, the lowest since the survey began in 1981.

“A seven per cent increase in police recorded crime reflects the greater accuracy in crime recording processes and the increased willingness and ease of victims to report incidents to the police. Increases in violence without injury and sexual offences are good examples of the improved confidence the public have to come forward.

“However, as a service we recognise the challenge of effectively capturing and responding to the changing demands from complex public protection issues, fraud and cybercrime and the breakdown of these figures in future reports will be extremely helpful.”