Small businesses in Portsmouth have recently suffered a series of burglaries. Cllr Stephen Morgan, Labour‘s parliamentary candidate for Portsmouth South, is hugely concerned.
The burglaries come at a time when overall crime in the city has gone up, including a worrying increase in violent crime.
Stephen explains:
“Small traders, shops and businesses are at the bedrock of our local economy. Owners are doing the best they can to contribute to the city’s economic growth and I am worried about the impact of this spate of incidents on many a small business struggling to make ends meet.”
Cllr Morgan contacted the Superintendent for our district and asked them what action they are taking to address this issue. He also asked for crime prevention advice, so further incidents can be prevented.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QV_c2-hZDY&w=560&h=315]
Having heard their response, he says:
“I am reassured to hear that several arrests have been made and the force are working hard to prosecute suspects. They have identified that a number of different people are carrying out the offences, even though the modus operandi are similar.
“I am glad that the police have increased both uniform patrols and plain clothes activity, to try to catch offenders in the act. It is my understanding that officers are well briefed about who the suspects are, which means they can be stopped and searched if officers see them.”
Cllr Morgan has this message for small business owners:
“I am told that neighbourhood officers will be visiting local businesses to offer advice and reassurance. If you are based in Portsmouth South and would like to share your concerns with me, or explore whether I can offer any support, please do not hesitate to get in touch.”
Cllr Morgan also has a request for the local community:
“Labour will increase the number of bobbies on the beat in our city, and I very much welcome these plans. Yet we all have a part to play in tackling crime.
So let’s all keep an eye out for suspicious activity around our local businesses. If you have any useful information to share, please contact the police or Crimestoppers. Together we can help to keep Portsmouth safe.”
Portsmouth Labour value the diversity and vibrancy of city’s small business community. Small firms make a big difference to their community and life in every corner of our city.
Research tells us that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-size business, 63% is re-spent in the local area. This is compared to 40p in every £1 spent with a chain or larger business.
