Professionals working against antisocial behaviour who fail to tackle offenders using new powers awarded to them by ministers, should be sacked, the home secretary warned, writes Amy Taylor.
Speaking at the launch of the antisocial behaviour action plan, David Blunkett said that all professionals must "do their job" and use the powers they will be given under the plan.
Such professionals include headteachers, who will have the power to issue fines to parents whose children truant, and workers on crime and disorder reduction partnerships, which are strengthened under the plan.
Speaking of these groups David Blunkett said: "They are accountable to the community, and if they don't do their job they should be got rid of."
Blunkett went on to directly challenge calls by children's charities that measures in the bill affecting young people are too harsh. "The Children's Society and others - if you really want to protect young people you don’t let them drift into gangs…you help them by getting a structure into their lives," he said.
The plan includes the creation of a team of 10 specialist antisocial behaviour prosecutors from early next year to help communities to prosecute offenders quickly. Ten 'trailblazer' priority geographical areas for action targeting issues such as begging and nuisance neighbours were also identified.
A further measure involves new sentencing guidance from January for magistrates dealing with breeches of antisocial behaviour orders to ensure consistent punishments throughout the country.
Prime minister Tony Blair, also speaking at the launch, said more legislation would follow if the measures did not bring improvements.
Youth Justice and the Youth Justice Board
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Substance misuse
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Details of government consultations
21 August 2008
Private Member Bills
25 July 2008
Government Legislation
25 July 2008
