Bedford and Kempston MP, Mohammad Yasin (Labour), spoke in Parliament today (13 January) to ask for assurances from the Home Secretary in light of the recent murder of 17-year-old Thomas Taylor.
Thomas Taylor was fatally stabbed near Bedford bus station on Wednesday (8 January) and four teenagers have appeared in court today.
It comes as research shows that knife crime in Bedfordshire is amongst the highest in England.
Read: Knife crime rates in Bedfordshire amongst highest in England
Speaking at Home Office Questions, Mr Yasin said: “My deepest condolences to the family and friends of 17-year-old Thomas Taylor, who was fatally stabbed in Bedford last week.
“While I welcome increased funding for the force and the progress made in tackling knife crime in the region, will the Secretary of State ensure the special grants awarded to Bedfordshire police in recognition of the high levels of serious violent crime in the region are also maintained and will she outline what further steps are being taken to deter young people from carrying lethal weapons?”
The Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, responded, saying: “He is right in saying that we need comprehensive work to prevent knife crime and to prevent young people carrying knives in the first place.”
Bedfordshire Police’s superintendent Alex House told the Bedford Independent: “Knife crime is a complex issue and remains a priority for the force. We conduct dedicated operations and deploy resources every day to proactively address knife crime in our communities.
“Our efforts also include educating young people with impactful messages and offering opportunities that steer them away from crime.”
