Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Damian Hinds and Maggie Throup

Tuesday 16th May 2023 Commons Chamber

[Maggie Throup (Erewash) (Con)]

17. What steps his Department is taking through the criminal justice system to tackle alcohol and drug related crime.

[The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Damian Hinds)]

Offenders who get off drugs are some 19% less likely to slip back into a life of crime, so the Ministry of Justice is investing strongly across security, testing, treatment and continuity of care.

[Maggie Throup]

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate that there is a clear correlation between criminal offences involving drugs and alcohol and the prevalence of antisocial behaviour, particularly in and around our town centres? What is being done to ensure that persistent offenders of drink and drug-fuelled antisocial behaviour are not only prosecuted but receive tougher custodial sentences to keep them off the streets so that people feel safer in our communities?

--- Later in debate ---

[Damian Hinds]

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his question, though I know that you would not want me to stray too far into matters that are for other Government Departments, Mr Speaker. The UK has carried out by far the longest and largest evacuation of any western country from Sudan, bringing 2,450 people to safety. Preventing a humanitarian emergency in Sudan is our top focus. Alongside the evacuation effort, we are working with international partners and the United Nations to bring an end to the fighting.

[Maggie Throup (Erewash) (Con)]

T1. If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities.