While Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner is an area in which there is a low level of crime, I know that residents have expressed concerns about the more violent crimes we typically see in other areas of the capital. One of these is knife crime, and I am encouraged by the Government’s renewed commitment to tackle this with the introduction of legislation to ban certain types of large knives, such as zombie knives and machetes. The measures - allowing police more powers to seize dangerous weapons, creating a new offence of possession of a bladed weapon with intent to harm and increasing sentences for those who import, manufacture or sell dangerous to under 18s – are encouraging steps, but we know that there have been deficiencies in previous legislation, and so we must ensure that the ban is watertight and workable.
From speaking with young people in the constituency on school visits, I know important it is for them to feel safe, particularly on public transport and public spaces, which can be achieved through increased police visibility and measures such as knife arches. I have recently published a crime survey and for residents who would like to contribute, you can do so on my website.
Turning to international matters, air strikes against Houthi military targets were carried out by the UK, USA and allies last month. This was limited, necessary and in proportion to the direct threat against British and American warships – the greatest assault on the Royal Navy for decades – and illegal attacks against commercial shipping vessels in the Red Sea. As one of the major arteries of international trade, if the Houthis deny this passage to ships, it directly threatens supply chains, resulting in increased prices in Britain and across the globe.
It is important to highlight that the Houthis’ malign narrative that this is about Israel and Gaza should not be believed; they targeted ships from around the world. I appreciate the conflict in Israel and Gaza remains a deeply emotive issue amongst residents. While the UK Government continues to press for a sustainable ceasefire in the region, any action taken must directly serve the aim of achieving ongoing peace in the region, and permanently break the long-term cycle of violence.
First published: My Local News, February 2024
