Stakeholder Response: Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO)

Responding to the government’s proposed legislation in the Queen’s Speech, ACPO President Chris Fox said: “The legislation put forward today suggests a comprehensive package of action and measures to target both anti-social and violent criminals who continue to blight the lives of decent law abiding citizens.

"The public need to know that the police will crack down hard on those violent and prolific offenders, and we hope that the courts will sentence them appropriately.

“Police action and enforcement must be seen as one tool in the armoury of tackling crime. Education, parents, local authorities and other agencies all have a role to play in addressing offending behaviour and restoring the respect in young people that the government sees as key to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour. Enforcement alone is not the solution.

“I look forward to seeing the detail of the proposed Bills and will be seeking to contribute to the government’s agenda through the consultation process and by offering the police service’s professional advice.”

Stakeholder Response: Voice UK

A spokesperson for Voice UK told ePolitix.com: "We welcome the announcement of a Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Bill.

"People with learning disabilities are uniquely vulnerable to abuse, and more stringent measures must be taken to ensure that those working with them and caring for them are suitable to do so"