More police and stronger communities needed to reduce crime - Clegg

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 17th May 2006

Commenting ahead of the publication of the Audit Commission's report on Neighbourhood Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Nick Clegg MP said "After nine years of tough talk and hyperactive law-making, this report reveals that crime and the fear of crime is still unacceptably high, with the worst problems in the most deprived communities. The reality of crime is a far cry from the Government's empty rhetoric.

"The only way to bring about a long term reduction in crime and disorder is to build stronger communities. More police on the streets will help, but it is not the whole answer."