Written question asked by Mike Hancock (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 26 February 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 28 February 2007. It was answered by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Monday, 5 March 2007 on behalf of the Home Office.

Crime

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make it his policy to reclassify crimes involving cash and valuables in transit from business crime to a category of serious crime; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: The Home Office Classification of Offences for Criminal Statistics has no category of ‘serious’ and currently there are no plans to change this.The Government recognise the seriousness of cash and valuables in transit (CVIT) robbery and the impact these attacks have on both victims and witnesses. We are currently working hard with stakeholders to establish a cross industry response to the problem. We are planning a national stakeholder conference in April which will build on the recommendations for action from a London conference to be held on 7 March. Our intention is to develop a programme that will address all aspects of CVIT deliveries.The Serious and Organised Crime Agency will continue to work closely with local forces on CVIT crime, providing tactical and operational support where appropriate.

Secondary information