New ONS figures show police recorded crime fell by 5% in March 2020 compared with the previous month, followed by a larger 20% decrease between March and April. However, as the easing of lockdown restrictions began, crime increased by 12% from April to May, while violent crime was up 13% close to pre-lockdown levels. 

 Responding to the figures, Sarah Jones MP, Shadow Minister for Policing and Fire said:
“These figures show an expected reduction in most offences during lockdown. However, it is concerning that violence recorded by the police is already returning to pre-lockdown levels. 
“After a decade of cuts to police and preventative services, we need real action from the Government to tackle the issues that drive violence on our streets.”