Recorded Violent Crime Down and Overall Crime Stable in England and Wales

Crime in England and Wales remains stable according to the British Crime Survey (BCS) and has fallen by three per cent according to the Recorded Crime Statistics, both published last week. Overall violent crime also remains stable according to the BCS, having fallen by 43 per cent since 1995 and police recorded violent crime fell by one per cent compared to the same quarter last year. Recorded violent crime resulting in an injury is down seven per cent. The risk of becoming a victim of crime has increased from 23 per cent to 24 per cent, however it remains historically low after peaking at 40 per cent in 1995.

In the twelve months to September 2006, recorded firearm statistics show a 14 per cent drop in firearms offences compared with the twelve months to September 2005, a nine per cent reduction in serious injuries and a 29 per cent reduction in slight injuries. Firearm fatalities showed no change.

"We have already seen massive reductions in crime in this country - 8.4 million fewer crimes committed last year than in 1995 - and I am encouraged by the latest police and BCS crime statistics, said Home Office Minister Tony McNulty. "The government is determined to continue reducing crime and despite the many positives in today's statistics, we are not complacent and there is still much more work to be done.

"Robbery has been of concern in recent statistics but there were 23,000 fewer robberies committed last year than five years ago. We have made concerted efforts with police to further tackle the problems and have put into place the Robbery Action Plan, to help areas quickly get to grips with the problem. In addition, 'SAFE week', designed to prevent young people becoming victims of robbery and deter potential offenders will be run again later this month.

"The drive to tackle anti-social behavior is making a real impact in our communities with new powers introduced by the Government being effectively used more and more across the country. One year on and the Respect program is also making progress, with a new drive on supporting parents to help them manage problem behavior in their children, a 27 per cent reduction in truancy in 200 schools and substantial investment in youth activities (