Agenda item

Report of the City of London Police

The Group heard a verbal update from a representative of the Commissioner of Police that summarised recent developments for the review period April-June 2017.

The Commissioner explained that seven attempted murder reported crimes occurred in June 2017 as a result of the London Bridge Attack, accounting for a 20% increase compared to May 2017.  There had also been a significant increase in sexual offences from May to June 2017.

The Commissioner explained that the Police had led 11 operations during the Night Time Economy hours to address a range of issues in response to terrorist attacks, and to provide reassurance and advice to business owners.  The Chairman asked the Group’s City Business Representative if he was content with the service provided, to which the City Business Representative confirmed that he was.

The Commissioner explained that there had been an increase in acquisitive crime, mainly consisting of thefts on scooters/mopeds and burglary.  However, there is reason to believe that one or two particular offenders are responsible for a large percentage of these incidents, one of whom may now have been arrested.

The Commissioner explained that a Police operation had been taking place around Middlesex Street following reports from residents of drug dealing in the area.  The operation had been successful, and they were now in communication with BT to attempt to have a phone box removed that was acting as a focal point for criminal operations.  The Chairman noted that Anti-Social Behaviour figures had risen dramatically, almost doubling since last year.  The Commissioner explained that the methods of reporting antisocial behaviour had changed and that this had led to spikes in the figures.  The Chairman noted the importance of recognising this point when we try to interpret the level of success in tackling ASB, and illustrated his support for the work of the Police in this area.  The Chairman requested that in future Police updates, year-on-year statistics be provided with percentage comparisons. (6)

The Commissioner explained that as the City of London is busier in terms of footfall than its surrounding boroughs, the figures are positive.  A Member noted that, although the figures were promising, it should not be overlooked that the predominantly business community within the City is not comparable to that of other boroughs such as Westminster, so we should not rely on too direct a comparison in this regard.

RESOLVED – That the Commissioner be heard.