Police committed to tackling violent crime

Responding to the statistics Chief Constable Bill Skelly, National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for Crime Recording and Statistics, said: “While changes to how police record crime and increased reporting explain some of the increases in police recorded crime in England and Wales, there are real rises in serious crimes like robbery and violence with weapons, with a devastating impact on victims and families.

“The ONS is right to remind us to keep the figures in perspective as statistically very few people experience crime, particularly violent crime. 

“The statistics show an increase in violent crime and those being in possession of an offensive weapon. These are things police forces are committed to tackling using many tactics like the Operation Sceptre national day of action on knife crime and our work with local NHS Trusts and A&E units which are showing success. We will continue to work with the Home Office and other partners to deal with growing violent crime because this is not something that can be solved by policing alone.

“Rising crime, increased terrorist activity and fewer police officers have put serious strain on the policing we offer to the public. We are determining the additional capabilities and investment we need to drive down violence and catch more criminals - and we will make the case at the next government spending review.  Equally important is driving up productivity and cutting any remaining inefficiencies.”