The Government urgently needs a new approach to tackling acid attacks – Diane Abbott

Diane Abbott MP,
Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, responding to the acid attacks that took place
across London yesterday evening, said: 

“The
recent spate of acid attacks have shocked the nation, but sadly they are
nothing new. With a steady rise in attacks since 2010 and a steep increase of
70 per cent from 2015 to 2016, it is clear that the Government urgently needs a
new approach to tackling this heinous crime.

"Just like knives and guns, acid is being used in murders, robberies and
rapes. The problem is the weapon of choice is often a common household product.
With very few prosecutions it is clear that we do not have the tools necessary
to investigate and prevent these attacks.

"While the Tories arrogantly insist that they have protected the police
budget, the reality is they have cut numbers by over 20,000, leaving our forces
overstretched as they work tirelessly to keep the public and our communities
safe.”