The Government's response to crime
02/12/22
Josie's Stuff column covered the Government's response to crime fears.
In the 1990s, former UK prime minister Tony Blair promised to be ‘’tough on crime, tough on the causes of crime’’. Like all good clichés, his formula is well-worn because it is obvious. ‘’The public – contrary to conventional wisdom – does not ignore the social content of crime. But, rightly, they will only listen to people who show understanding of their own plight as potential victims,’’ he wrote.
It should not be controversial for a government to both protect us from being attacked and having our stuff stolen, while also championing a justice system that doesn't just punish and deter, but also rehabilitates and reintegrates for the good of society (not just the individual).
The Government's inability to be clear about justice and crime has the same cause as many of its familiar flaws: It never did enough deep thinking in opposition. In contrast, UK Labour did, which is how it came up with a fresh approach to crime that neutralised its critics.
In the 1990s, former UK prime minister Tony Blair promised to be ‘’tough on crime, tough on the causes of crime’’. Like all good clichés, his formula is well-worn because it is obvious. ‘’The public – contrary to conventional wisdom – does not ignore the social content of crime. But, rightly, they will only listen to people who show understanding of their own plight as potential victims,’’ he wrote.
It should not be controversial for a government to both protect us from being attacked and having our stuff stolen, while also championing a justice system that doesn't just punish and deter, but also rehabilitates and reintegrates for the good of society (not just the individual).
The Government's inability to be clear about justice and crime has the same cause as many of its familiar flaws: It never did enough deep thinking in opposition. In contrast, UK Labour did, which is how it came up with a fresh approach to crime that neutralised its critics.
