Luke Myer MP has welcomed the new Crime and Policing Bill, which will be voted on later today (Monday 10 March 2025). The Bill has significant measures to prevent crime and bring offenders to justice, with new powers to combat anti-social behaviour and retail crime, address violence against women and girls, and tackle serious violence including knife crime.

It also strengthens police powers to tackle persistent offenders and ensures better protection for victims. The Bill follows actions announced by the Government to deliver a £7.4m uplift to Cleveland Police, and steps to put more neighbourhood police back on the beat.

Luke Myer MP said:
“This Bill is an important step forward in tackling the crime and anti-social behaviour that continues to blight our communities. People across Teesside want to see action against repeat offenders, more support for victims, and real consequences for those who commit crime. I welcome the additional police powers and tougher penalties, particularly on knife crime and shoplifting, which have been serious concerns for local residents recently. 

“The proposals to crack down on illegal offroad bikes are also a welcome step – meaning our police officers will be able to seize and crush bikes more easily. I will vote for the Bill, and continue working to support our local police to make our streets safer.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey said:

“I welcome the Crime and Policing Bill as a vital step in tackling crime, anti-social behaviour, and serious violence. This legislation supports my Police and Crime Plan by giving Cleveland Police stronger powers to crack down on offenders, protect victims, and improve community safety. From tackling retail crime to addressing the illegal use of offroad bikes, these measures will help deliver more visible and effective policing across Cleveland. I look forward to working with the government and local partners to ensure these changes make a real difference on the ground.”

References:

• Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey produced a Police and Crime Plan on the 11th December 2024 which has six strategic priorities to:
  • Reduce crime, anti-social behaviour and harm
  • Deliver more visible and effective policing
  • Improve safety for women and girls
  • Ensure the right support for victims and vulnerable people
  • Build trust and confidence in policing and the justice system
  • Prevent offending and reoffending 
• Link to Westminster Hall debate on antisocial behaviour and illegal bikes: Hansard, 5 March 2025 – Luke Myer
• Link to the Crime and Policing Bill: UK Parliament – Crime and Policing Bill Crime and Policing Bill – UK Parliament