In light of the concerns residents have about a spate of motorcycle crimes, particularly in Hornchurch, I asked the Leader of the House of Commons whether we might have a debate on whether police have all the powers they need to tackle such crime. There are concerns among officers about the rules around pursuit of offenders in particular.

Julia Dockerill Conservative, Hornchurch and Upminster

The Metropolitan police recently revealed that up to 50,000 crimes a year are now being committed by thieves on motorbikes and pedal cycles. That is reflected in correspondence I receive from my constituents across Hornchurch and Upminster. Will the Leader of the House make time for a debate on whether police have all the powers they need to tackle this alarming new crime wave?

Andrea Leadsom Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons

May I start by welcoming my hon. Friend to her place? I can confirm that the Home Office is currently in discussion with the Metropolitan police about the problem of motorcycle and moped theft in London and will look very carefully at the evidence on what more can be done to prevent it. Of course, how the police enforce the law and deploy available resources is the responsibility of individual chief officers, taking into account specific local problems and the demands they are faced with.