I believe in a tougher law and order policy. This should include a ‘zero-tolerance’ approach to crime, more neighbourhood policing and tougher sentences. I refer to New York’s progress during the 1990s, when such an approach resulted in a significant reduction in crime across most categories.
However, at the same time, we must ensure we place appropriate emphasis on reducing reoffending – we must break the cycle of crime. Our overcrowded prisons are turning young criminals into experienced old hands. Our prisons do an excellent job of keeping criminals off the streets, but our courts all too frequently come across the same faces.
