Local media asked me to comment on a new local police initiative which is combating youth violence and criminal activity. I commended local police but warned that more needs to be done. I said:

“It is heartening to know that people in Norwich are now safer, including on nights out in the city centre and some local neighbourhoods. Constituents and local residents have told me that they are concerned about violence and anti-social behaviour.

This police operation is succeeding, but it is often not enough to reduce anti-social behaviour and crime in one area.

If we want this to work in the long term, we will have to do even more. That includes even more joint working between different parts of our public services and ensuring that there is enough money to prevent the causes of crime, not just continually trying to deal with the consequences.”