MP calls for debate on knife crime

Streatham MP Chuka Umunna has called on the government to provide MPs with an update on progress in tackling knife and gun crime in Britain’s inner cities following a recent fatal stabbing in his constituency.

Mr Umunna made the request in the House of Commons yesterday in the context of extensive cuts to voluntary organisations working to prevent gun and knife crime. Leader of the House Sir George Young responded that he would pass the request on to the Home Secretary.

In July last year, Mr Umunna raised questions after the murder of constituent Zac Olumegbon, with David Cameron during Prime Minister’s Questions and called for the government to take action to tackle knife crime.

In September, Mr Umunna held a debate in Parliament on youth violence in London. And the latest call comes after another constituent, 34-year old father of two, Soloman Sarfo of Clapham Park south London, was killed just over two weeks ago.

Mr Umunna said; “Knife and gun crime continue to blight inner-city communities such as mine”.  He asked the Home Secretary to provide an update on, “What the Government are doing tackle the problem, particularly now that third-sector organisations working to prevent such crimes are seeing their funding withdrawn.”

Leader of the House Sir George Young replied to the MP saying; “I very much regret the loss of life and I understand the deep feeling in his constituency. The coalition agreement makes it clear that we want to take a robust approach to those who carry knives, with appropriate penalties to deal with knife crime”; he added that he would “pass the request to the Home Secretary.”

Commenting afterwards, Mr Umunna said; “Knife crime continues to be a significant problem on our streets, and I hope that the government adopts a strong, properly funded strategy on knife crime”.

Main picture: Knife crime march Hyde Park