PM's 'Tough' Asbo Moves

Gordon Brown has promised tougher penalties against those who breach ASBOs.

A 'guarantee of protection' will also be given to victims as part of a raft of measure aimed at tackling crime, and the fear of crime.

The Prime Minister pledged to protect funding for front-line policing and announced new legislation designed to combat anti-social behavior.

He said the Government will increase public accountability at all levels of the police.

Neighbourhood police will be expected to spend 80% of their time on the beat.

Mr Brown said all non-emergency inquiries will receive a response within 24 hours and monthly beat meetings will be held to discuss priorities.

His speech also announced new legislation designed to improve Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs).

The PM pledged clearer national standards for ASBOs; a faster application processes; and tougher action when orders are breached.

Victims of the worst cases of anti-social behaviour will also be given a 'guarantee of protection', including support obtaining an injunction and legal fees paid where an agency has let them down.

Emphasising how these measures will benefit the whole of society, the Prime Minister said: "People need to know that we are serious, and that we are succeeding against everything from anti-social behaviour to knife crime to organised crime, and that we are right there on the side of those who play by the rules.

"And that those who don’t, will be dealt with, because that is what will keep our communities strong in the future."

Rebutting the concept of "a broken society", Mr Brown claimed that risk of crime is at its lowest level since 1981, but he said government must "understand the fear of crime".

Speaking at Reading Town Hall today, the PM said: "A society in which not just crime and anti-social behaviour but also child poverty, illiteracy, and ill health have all fallen cannot be called a broken society."

(PR/BMcC)