Firstly, I can not start my column without reflecting on the deeply concerning developments in the Middle East.
I have been shocked by the barbaric, unprovoked attacks by Hamas against Israeli civilians. Hamas is a terrorist organisation and deserves absolute unequivocal condemnation. Antisemitism must not stand.
I join with the Prime Minister in expressing my wholehearted support for the people of Israel and fully support him as he works closely with international partners to ensure regional security and stability.
Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people and offers nothing other than more terror and bloodshed.
Closer to home, I have been concerned to hear of increased shoplifting locally – a trend which has also been seen across the country. Therefore, last week I invited a number of local retailers, Kent Police Chief Inspector Jones and Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent, Matthew Scott to a meeting to discuss the problem.
Each retailer was able to express the problems they were experiencing - and it was particularly upsetting to hear about the violence and threats some staff are having to face. This is unacceptable and must be stopped.
The common theme was a request was for more visible policing, and I was grateful to Chief Inspector Jones and Matthew Scott for listening and setting out their plans. I was pleased to hear that they are placing a greater focus on this issue by targeting repeat offenders in the District and using all the powers they have to act, including orders that ban them from stores.
Matthew has overseen a huge increase in police numbers within Kent (with 4,203 officers in comparison with 3,787 in 2010) and there was clearly an expressed view from local retailers for more of these officers to be deployed locally.
I welcomed the clear commitment from Matthew in response for additional resource, and he confirmed that more of these Officers are going to be deployed into our local neighbourhoods. This will mean residents will see more visible patrols available to respond when needed. Officers have also been pro-actively engaging with businesses this week as part of Safer Business Action Week where they’ve been visiting local businesses and conducting surveys.
I will be following up closely on the agreed action, and if any retailer would like to share their experience please do not hesitate to get in touch. I will always do all I can to ensure our community is safe, and that our excellent local businesses can continue to thrive.
