Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Iain Stewart and Suella Braverman

Monday 14th November 2022 Commons Chamber

[Iain Stewart (Milton Keynes South) (Con)]

1. What recent discussions she has had with the Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police on the effectiveness of Operation Deter.

[The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Suella Braverman)]

Before I answer, on behalf of the UK may I pass on my thoughts and prayers to all those affected by the terrible attack in Istanbul yesterday? I am sure that the whole House will join me, on behalf of the UK Government, in saying that the UK stands with Turkey in the fight against terrorism. We send our condolences to all those affected.

Last month, I visited Thames Valley police to meet the chief constable, force leaders and student officers. A number of topics were discussed, including the delivery of Operation Deter. I am always keen to discuss interventions that the chief constable and local partners believe to be effective in reducing knife crime.

[Iain Stewart]

The police and crime commissioner for Thames Valley, Matthew Barber, introduced Operation Deter as a zero-tolerance approach to knife crime. It started in Milton Keynes and is now being rolled out in the force in other areas. It is already delivering some very encouraging signs in reducing knife crime. Will my right hon. Friend review it further and encourage other forces to replicate it in their areas?