Most people in fear of crime says Tory

Jan 5 2008 by Hazel Ettienne, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

CRIME and anti-social behaviour are among the greatest concerns for people living in Denby Dale, Kirkburton and Mirfield, claims a politician.

More than one third of those surveyed were worried about the subjects, with almost one quarter (23%) concerned about loss of hospital services and immigration (21%).

The survey, of more than 1,000 people was organised by Kevin Hollinrake, Conservative Parliamentary candidate for Dewsbury, Denby Dale and Kirkburton and Mirfield.

It also asked residents to identify the solution to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, with people suggesting parents (39%) and the police (25%) should be held accountable for tackling the problem.

Mr Hollinrake said: “It is time to face facts, despite constant assurances, most people live in fear of crime.

“Those responsible for tackling crime cannot just keep on banging on that our streets are safe and that residents have never had it so good.

“The people of Denby Dale and Kirkburton can see with their own eyes – crime, anti-social behaviour and a culture of disrespect is rife in our community.

“We need a different approach. We need high-profile, zero-tolerance policing and tougher sentencing. People want to see many more, well-known and trusted local officers walking the beat.

“Respect is the backbone of strong communities; we need more respect for teachers in the classroom, for our police officers and crucially between parents and their children.

“We cannot hope that young people will give others respect if they have not been taught it, and received it, at home.

“This survey makes a mockery of the £18m reduction in the West Yorkshire Police budget this year and the recent disgraceful attempt to short-change police officers by delaying their pay rise. Effective policing is hugely dependent on the goodwill of officers and support staff.

“What message does it send when the government tries to change the goalposts in negotiations with our most important asset in the fight against crime?”