Ipswich MP proposes new knife crime coalition amidst police funding debate

The big picture: The Ipswich MP's proposal comes after recent knife crime incidents in Ipswich, including the tragic murder of Courtney Mitchell.

Why it matters: Abbott hopes the initiative will bring together local political institutions, police, and educational professionals to review and improve existing strategies for tackling knife crime in the county.

Yes, but: The South area of Suffolk, including Ipswich, has seen a 42% reduction in knife crime offences involving injury in the last year, and knife crime levels related to violence with or without injury have been at their lowest since 2020, according to the Police & Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore.

What they're saying: In his letter to the Police & Crime Commissioner, Abbott referred to the murders of Courtney Mitchell and James Quigley, writing: "These incidents cut two young lives tragically short and illustrate the imperative of tackling knife crime in a multi-faceted and urgent manner."

"Important work has already begun locally, but to deal with what is an ever-changing set of challenges, our approach needs to evolve," Abbott added, noting concerns about young people carrying various weapons.

Tim Passmore responded: "I am pleased to see that our local MP is as committed as I am to making our county town a safe and attractive place to live and work," adding, "We must remember that Suffolk is a relatively safe place," before highlighting recent improvements.

He concluded: “We are fortunate not to be affected by the levels of serious crime seen in other parts of the country. I think it is important that we also celebrate what is good about our county town."

On police funding: Abbott has also challenged the government's police funding formula, which Suffolk's Police Commissioner previously described as "a pretty poor deal" for the county.

Abbott told Parliament: "The police funding formula has long been considered to penalise counties like Suffolk."

Replying to Mr Abbott’s question, Dame Diana Johnson, Minister of State for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention, said:

“As part of the spending review, we want to consider police funding in the round, including how police funding is allocated to forces.

“The sector, including the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners and the National Police Chiefs’ Council, is engaged in the process.”

What's next: The police funding formula is being considered ahead of the government's spending review, with input from police chiefs and commissioners.

The bottom line: Passmore left the door open to learning more about Abbott's plans to further reduce knife crime in the town, saying “I will never be complacent – we need to work together to keep Ipswich safe and I look forward to hearing more about Jack’s plans to rid our streets of violent crime.”