Local crime information vital to reducing crime - Huhne

5.36.15pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 28th Jul 2008

Commenting on the Home Office's announcement that interactive local crime maps will be introduced in every area, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Huhne said:

"Local crime information is a vital first step to reducing crime by spreading best practice.

"However, police must include local detection rates so the public can hold them to account if crimes are not cleared up.

"Other police forces should follow the example set by Hampshire, which is so far the only force putting their necks on the line by telling residents how successful they are at solving local crimes.

"If criminals think they will be caught, then they are much less likely to offend."