She told the Telegraph: “This is a complex issue and clearly there is not one single reason why it is happening and not one single solution that can resolve it. But I would agree that things are very serious at the moment.
“Crime has absolutely spiralled since Sadiq Khan came in but there are also structural issues within the Met that need addressing.
“For the police to get on top of this problem we need to have proper neighbourhood teams embedded in the community. Far too often these officers are being abstracted from their neighbourhood role and dragged onto response teams to fill gaps there.
“I have never been a fan of the big BCUs [basic command Units]. I think borough-based policing is absolutely essential.”
Ms Hall, a former member of the London Assembly police and crime committee, also believes there needs to be more police presence in the communities where these crimes are taking place.
‘We need more bases’
“Many people in London want and need to see their local police stations opened again. Given that we are increasing the number of police officers, we absolutely need to increase the number of bases.”
But she said the problem of violence was a matter for society generally.
“There has been a massive reduction in respect for anyone in authority and unless we get that back we are going to be in for a hell of a time.
“How have we got to this situation where kids are running through the streets with machetes? It’s an absolute disgrace. The most difficult job in the world is to be a parent, but it is also the most rewarding. You have to teach your kids right from wrong.”
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
