Dear Matthew,

Following the recent tragic incidents of knife crime in Slough, there is a genuine feeling that we urgently need more policing resources. Whilst other parts of Thames Valley may not be as affected as Slough, the number of violent incidents in Slough has increased.

As you will know, just in the past week there have been three stabbings and tragically one death. Understandably, there has been a lot of anger in the community resulting in complaints that the police and those in authority are failing, with some noting that following certain incidents the police have not attended or have only arrived after a considerable amount of time. I know the local Slough police team are doing a very good job under very difficult conditions and with very limited resources. But sadly, local residents feel like they are being let down.

Slough is officially the youth capital of Britain, meaning we have the lowest average age of any town or city in the country. While that is a source of pride for the community and means we have a large working population, it has also sadly resulted in an increased number of young victims of knife and drugs related crime. For all of those reasons, I would request these resources for Slough are increased. I understand from a recent briefing that police officers are being recruited locally, but that process is going to take 12-18 months to come to fruition. That will be way too late, given what is going on currently in the town.

Further, I fear that the cost-of-living crisis will only exacerbate the situation since many people are already struggling to pay their bills and are having to rely on foodbanks just in order to eat. This will no doubt lead to increased stress, tension and a rise in crime, so prompt action is certainly in order. Awaiting a positive response.

Yours sincerely,

Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi MP