Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Sarah Newton and Huw Merriman

Monday 16th October 2017 Commons Chamber

[Huw Merriman (Bexhill and Battle) (Con)]

15. What steps she is taking to tackle rural crime.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sarah Newton)]

The Government have ensured that, through the election of police and crime commissioners, communities—including those in rural areas—have a strong voice in determining how police resources are allocated, to tackle the crimes that most matter to them. I hope that my hon. Friend will join me in congratulating Katy Bourne on her work to prioritise rural crime in Sussex.

[Huw Merriman]

I certainly congratulate Katy Bourne, who does a great job. Does my hon. Friend agree that we need to ensure that the police investigate all crimes and not give a perception that certain offences, particularly those prevalent in rural areas, will not be pursued?

[Sarah Newton]

My hon. Friend raises a very important point. Of course, police will investigate all crimes. Extremely good police and crime commissioners who work with their communities, such as Katy Bourne, are able to prioritise what matters most to people. They often work in partnership with great organisations such as the National Farmers Union to come up with the right solutions for the community.