Javid: We can win the battle against knife crime
The Home Secretary says the Government is "united" in its approach to dealing with violence as he insisted the battle against knife crime can be won.
Sajid Javid addressed Britain's knife crime epidemic during a visit to the Black Country, saying the "senseless violence" that had traumatised the public had to stop.
He said law enforcement was "critical" to dealing with violence, but called for more work to be done with schools, local authorities and mental health services to stop young people from turning to crime.
He conceded police resources were an issue, but described this year's Government funding increase for the country's forces as "huge" and welcomed the recent announcement that West Midlands Police would be taking on 200 new officers.
Mr Javid visited Brierley Hill as a guest of Dudley South MP Mike Wood. He said: "There is a lot of work the Government is doing but there is still more that needs to be done in many areas."
He said the battle against knife crime was one that "absolutely can be won", and insisted that the Government was "united" in working to reduce serious violence. "It's all about working together," he said.
"Law enforcement is critical and I have met the West Midlands Police Chief Constable to discuss what more can be done.
"Resources are an issue, and I welcome the huge increase that police across the country will be getting this year.
"Also there is a lot to be done with early intervention, particularly with young people to make sure we can intervene at a stage before people have turned to crime."
Funding for West Midlands Police has gone up by £34m, the bulk of which will be raised by an increase in council tax.
However, the region's Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said the cash will only allow his force to "stand still".
Bromsgrove MP Mr Javid added: "The funding is almost double what it was last year and nationally it is almost a billion pounds, which is the biggest increase since 2010.
"That said, part of my job is to always be listening to the chief constable and police officers to make sure we are supporting them the best way they can."
Mr Javid also gave his support to stop and search powers, which he said enabled police to "get knives off the street before they are actually used".
