In the fight against teenage crime, Crimbo becomes new order - Lib Dem councillor Mat Sanders admits ASBO's haven't worked
Published: 17 February 2011
by TOM FOOT
A SENIOR Liberal Democrat councillor insists his party should “make no apologies” for using Asbos during their time running the Town Hall, even though they have been critical of them in opposition.
Matt Sanders, the Lib Dems’ deputy leader in Camden, was speaking as Anti-Social Behaviour Orders were officially dumped by the government. They have been replaced by Criminal Behaviour Orders, nicknamed “Crimbos”, which will give police the power to confiscate MP3 players from those who have been repeatedly badly behaved. Those who are the subject of the new orders can also be banned from certain areas of the borough. Sceptics claim they are little different to Asbos, which were used at a ferocious rate in Camden to break up drug markets and red light districts from 2002 onwards.
Cllr Sanders, whose party ran the council in coalition with the Conservatives until last May, said: “Asbos haven’t worked – that’s clear. We certainly haven’t got it right yet and I think it’s right that we are open to new ideas.
“It was too blunt a tool. It was a bit of Tony Blair gimmick. It has been discredited. So I think it is right to look at something else. But the council was right to use every tool it had available and I make no apologies for confronting what is one of the biggest issues for many residents.”
The Town Hall coalition continued using Asbos despite concerns among some Lib Dems about the wisdom of them.
Criminal Behaviour Orders will allow police to apply for a court order to tackle low-level nuisance. The Home Office will demand Camden police investigate incidents of anti-social behaviour that are reported by at least five people – known as a “community trigger”. Those found responsible could have personal items, such as music systems, taken off them.
Labour’s crime chief Cllr Abdul Hai said the Crimbos would “demonise and criminalise” young people. He added: “The Lib Dems were always attacking us saying there was not enough burden of proof – and now there is even less. It’s real hypocrisy. Where have their principles gone?”
“Right now we, as a council, will analyse the plans, and send a formal response.”
Conservative leader Cllr Andrew Mennear said: “I just want to see criminals locked up and off our streets. I have never had a problems with Asbos, but I don’t mind that they’re changing them as long as they work.”