Tuesday 30th October 2007

Clwyd South MP welcomes the new Serious Crime Act 2007

The Serious Crime Act 2007 became law yesterday. The Act provides a number of ways to help deal with serious organised crime. The enacted measures include a new civil order – a ‘serious crime prevention order’ – to prevent serious crime, as well as the creation of offences in respect of the encouragement or assistance of crime.

Extra measures also include the extension of powers to the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and to HM Revenue and Customs in combating fraud. The Act will also encourage and enable information to be shared and processed more readily to prevent such fraud.

The extension of existing stop and search powers in relation to serious violence is another element of the legislation. Stop and search is an important tool in helping to disrupt and prevent crime, and it is designed to keep everybody safe within neighbourhoods and communities. When used fairly, it can be extremely useful, not only to tackle crime but to help raise community confidence and engagement. The extension of these powers in the Serious Crime Act 2007 will further help police officers to have the confidence to use these powers effectively to tackle crime, whilst similarly promoting confidence.

Martyn Jones MP said “I rigorously support any effort made by the Government to attack the cause and effects of serious organised crime. This legislation helps give the necessary powers to law enforcement officers in tackling this scourge on society. I am confident that Clwyd South will reap the benefits of the Serious Crime Act 2007 as yet another part of Labour’s dedication to protect each and every citizen in the UK.”