Lib Dems unveil plans to tackle minor crime

The Liberal Democrats party published its youth crime plan today (Thursday). The strategy focused on tackling the issue through prevention, positive activities, and community justice panels that would not result in a criminal record.

Paul Cavadino, chief executive of crime reduction charity Nacro, said the proposals were a "refreshing dose of common sense" in the youth crime debate.

"An emphasis on prevention, community panels, and restorative justice is far more likely to reduce youth crime than a punitive or custodial approach," he said.

Ross Hendry, head of public policy at children's charity NCH, said: "We must remember, young people are more often the victims of crime, not the perpetrators, and often want to tackle crime just as much as anyone else.

"It is imperative that we engage with youngsters as they know better than most what needs to be done."