Govt must stop young people falling prey to 'county lines' gangs

Responding to a report released today by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services into 'county lines' gangs, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesperson Christine Jardine said:

"When children as young as 12 are being exploited by drug gangs, the Government's approach clearly needs to change. We need to stop both the supply and demand of illegal hard drugs.

"Unnecessary Tory cuts to the police have made it easier for organised criminal networks to spread. Cuts to the Border Force have made it easier for gangs to traffic illegal drugs and guns into the UK, and cuts to youth services have made it easier for them to prey on young people.

"The Conservatives have now promised to strengthen the National Crime Agency to tackle county lines, and the Liberal Democrats will make sure they deliver on their promise.

"But the Government must also do more stop children falling prey to these criminal gangs. That means a public health approach, with police, teachers, health professionals, youth workers and social services all working closely together to give young people love, opportunity and support."

https://www.justiceinspectorates.gov.uk/hmicfrs/police-forces/publications/