Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Gordon Brown tonight promised new measures to tackle knife crime following the latest "shocking and tragic" stabbings in London.
The Prime Minister said in a statement that Home Secretary Jacqui Smith would set out the Government's latest plans on Monday.
"The terrible stabbings that have occurred this week are shocking and tragic, and my thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have been hurt or killed in these attacks," Mr Brown said.
He said that later in the week, the first ever cross-government youth crime plan will be published with new enforcement measures and improvements to sentencing.
It will also include and a new approach to youth crime prevention - including "tough parenting" programmes targeted on areas with the most problems.
Mr Brown said he had spoken to Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Ian Blair about the situation in London.
"I know the police are doing everything in their power to bring those responsible to justice," he said.
"I have asked to be kept updated on any developments. I thank the police for their efforts, and urge people to give them any help they can.
"We will continue to make absolutely clear that carrying a knife is unacceptable in our society."
Mr Brown said that people prosecuted for carrying a knife were now almost three times as likely to go to prison as in 1997.
Last month, the Government ended cautions for knife possession, replacing them with an expectation to prosecute while more money and equipment has been given to police forces in key areas to do more stop and searches.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments