It was a pleasure to meet with the new Neighbourhood Superintendent for Hillingdon, Anthony Bennett, at Uxbridge Police Station this morning. I took this opportunity to highlight the need to really pay attention to policing priorities across the different areas of London. This is particularly pertinent in suburban communities such as ours that, while are relatively low crime, still require sufficient police presence and attention.
It is of course welcome that we do not experience high levels of crime in Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner, but I know that residents are concerned about vehicle theft, burglary and drug dealing. Once reported, victims quite rightly expect a certain level of care and attention from police, and I am aware from speaking with residents that this could be improved upon. This is important in ensuring that people feel safe within their neighbourhoods and communities, but also addresses the bigger issue of rebuilding confidence and trust in the police.
The conversation I had with the Superintendent did largely echo the one I had with Sir Mark Rowley last year, along with Conservative colleagues in London, and so I am encouraged that this renewed sense of commitment to tackle all crime in all areas of the capital is being reflected in neighbourhood policing at a more local level.
