Yesterday I met with the Home Secretary, James Cleverly, to discuss what steps can be taken to support Donna Jones, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire, and I to provide the level of safety that residents deserve.
My top priority is to tackle crime, prioritising the safety of women and girls. I also want to ensure that the Labour council does not turn off street lights at night. Residents have told me that this creates more anxiety and makes them feel less safe in their homes at night.
One resident in Thornhill telephoned the council and was told, “We have to save money. What would you suggest?” This is unacceptable. The Labour Council appears to be unconcerned of the heightened risks but I take a tougher stance on crime. I am committed to increasing the number of police officers from the already recruited Hampshire-wide 650 as well as the additional 73 that are in the pipeline. I want to see more police officers on the streets of Southampton, especially Bargate and Bitterne Park. Visible policing is key for deterring and tackling crime. I recently met with former prisoners who are desperate not to reoffend. I want to do more to stop re-offending. We need to reintegrate ex-prisoners back into society with jobs and a stake in the future.
If you have been a victim of crime, or have some good ideas about how we can prevent crime, please do get in touch with my office.
Sidney Yankson
