Drugs-related crime is biggest fear for Britons

briefing:SOCIETY

Almost half the population consider drugs and drug-related offences to be the biggest crime problem in the country, far ahead of burglary and assault, says a survey published today. Many people said they would be willing to get involved in community work with young people if this would help to reduce crime in their area.

The Government will be cheered by the high level of support for the concept of "zero tolerance" - removing graffiti, drunks and aggressive beggars from the streets in an attempt to create an environment where more serious crimes do not occur.

Drugs and drug-related offending were described as the country's biggest crime problem by 45 per cent of the public. Burglary and assault were ranked first by 17 per cent and 13 per cent of people respectively.

More than 2,000 people took part in the MORI survey for the Bristol-based NatWest Insurance Services and the national crime prevention charity Crime Concern, which looked at attitudes in mainland Britain.