Yvette Cooper says crimes like shoplifting have "gone up far too high in recent years" and that they "haven't been taken seriously enough". The home secretary has announced that hundreds of towns will see an increased police presence to crack down on theft and anti-social behaviour. Report by Brooksl. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn
00:00Well, I've asked police forces and local councils from across the country to draw up plans to make our town centres safer this summer.
00:09And 500 towns and high streets have come forward with plans.
00:14That means extra neighbourhood police patrols backed by government funding.
00:18It means stronger enforcement and also prevention.
00:21But this is crucial because we've seen street theft, shop theft.
00:25These kinds of crimes go up far too high in recent years.
00:29And I just think they haven't been taken seriously enough.
00:32And it's time they were.
00:33Here in Beeston, I've been talking to the neighbourhood police about the work that they are doing with local shops, with local traders.
00:40Talking to the staff in boots about how important it is that they've got CCTV and proper links.
00:46But it's that partnership because, frankly, our town centres, our high streets need to feel safe for people to be able to enjoy the heart of their communities.
00:55That's what the Safer Streets Summer Initiative is all about.
