Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has been raising issues brought to him by businesses in Parliament this week.
The issue of shoplifting has been brought to his attention through Harrogate BID and Chamber of Commerce, with the issue becoming more apparent throughout the country.
Tom asked the Minister what action she and the Government were taking to encourage and support police forces to work with local communities and organisations to help with cracking down on shoplifting.
Tom said that due to years of budget and numbers cuts, the police “rarely have the resources” to prosecute shoplifters.
He said:
“It was great to raise the issues facing Harrogate and Knaresborough businesses this week. Shoplifting is a scrouge, and potentially very damaging for businesses and our town centres. It is especially worrying that criminal gangs are getting involved, only increasing the pressure on our businesses.
“I’m working with the business community, including the BID and Chamber of Commerce, and the police, to crack down on shoplifting in Harrogate.
“It’s vital that we bring together all the stakeholders in our town together to tackle this issue. I’m glad to have been able to help facilitate that through the taskforce, and look forward to further collaboration to ensure Harrogate remains open for business.”
Since being elected, Tom has founded the Harrogate Town Taskforce, to help bring together the police, the council and other stakeholders in the town centre including the BID and Chamber of Commerce to facilitate discussion of issues and coordination.
The Minister responded to say that she was working with police forces to increase cooperation with local communities, organisations and businesses to help reduce shoplifting.
Tom also raised concerns that shoplifting was increasingly being carried out by criminal gangs.
Route timings revealed for Knaresborough Tractor Run
Pilot dies following aircraft crash near Masham, police confirm
Ripon's Portly Pig to host charity football tournament
Council to review parking charges across North Yorkshire
Free packed lunches at Starbeck café feed families in need
Harrogate dentist recognised at national dental awards
Knaresborough beeswax candle shop set to close
Harrogate Town launches new half-time crossbar challenge
Queen and ABBA tribute acts to headline Harrogate Beer Festival
Ripon entrepreneur to appear on Dragon's Den
Harrogate figures to be 'jailed' to raise money for Harrogate Theatre
Harrogate bookshop named as finalist for British Book Awards
Council update on operator of Alpamare water park
Visitor levy would be mayor's decision, says senior councillor
Date announced for return of Harrogate dog show
Harrogate's Italian community donates sensory kits worth £1,200 to Harrogate Hospital
Man taken to Leeds General infirmary following aircraft crash in Masham
Six arrested following car theft in Harrogate
FULL CHAT: Local occupational therapist hosts online masterclass to support new mums
Harrogate businesses reject new accommodation BID proposal
