Scottish Executive claims crime at lowest level for nearly 25 years
Scottish Ministers are claiming that new crime figures show its policies on law and order are working.
Official figures show that recorded crime decreased by five per cent last year to take it to the lowest level for nearly a quarter of a century. In addition, the crime clear-up rate rose to 47 per cent – a record high.
The figures are welcome news for Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson, who has been under intense political pressure over mistaken prisoner releases by the private service contractor Reliance.
However, recorded cases of vandalism, including fire-raising and malicious mischief, increased by five per cent.
Speaking today Ms Jamieson said: “Our investment in record frontline policing is helping to reduce crime.
“I commend the police for their efforts – in particular, their work to tackle violent crime which decreased by seven per cent in the past year.”
She also pledged to continue action on anti-social behaviour, and announced an extra £1 million for the Community Safety Partnership, which aims to provide “constructive” activities for young people during the summer holiday.
Mr Jamieson said: “Today’s statistics demonstrate that the Executive is right to make antisocial behaviour a priority. On Thursday we will be debating key proposals that we believe will give the authorities the extra powers they need to tackle the hardcore of people who heap misery on their neighbours.
“This crucial legislation is supported by our White Paper on liquor licensing which sets out our proposals to reform licensing legislation around principles that will help prevent crime, disorder and public nuisance.”
