Crime rise shows failure of government to deliver on their tough talk - Carmichael

5.32.01pm GMT Thu 26th Jan 2006

Responding to the latest crime statistics, Alistair Carmichael MP, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson, said "The apparent increase in violence and robbery indicates a worrying failure of the government to implement their tough talk nationally at street level locally.

"The increase in robbery is unsurprising given the popularity of expensive portable electronics, which offer easy pickings for muggers. There needs to be a two-pronged attack on the problem. People need to be aware of the risks of carrying these items, and the manufacturers must look at ways to make stolen goods harder for criminals to use.

"We welcome the setting up of an independent group to look at ways of improving public confidence in the statistics. Crime figures should be accurate and easy to understand. The current system fails on both counts."