Hampton Crime Meeting

5.53.15pm GMT Tue 18th Mar 2003

After the packed public meeting on crime in Hampton (Monday evening) Vincent Cable, MP, said he was "disappointed that so many people had to be turned away but very pleased that the meeting itself was conducted in a very dignified and reasonable manner, despite the fact that emotions are running so high. "

"The police gave a firm commitment to the area with a "

"promise of a permanent police office or police station, reinforcing the presence of three community police officers".

"It is regrettable that it took a murder to get the authorities to take seriously the problems of lawlessness, vandalism and anti-social behaviour on the streets of Hampton. "

"But I am confident that the police have now got the message. It is up to the courts to use their new powers to deal with persistent offenders".