Jack Straw MP, Labour's Justice Secretary, said today:

"Since David Cameron refuses to be drawn on the real impact of his policies for Britain, it's up to us to hold the Conservatives to account on their policies - or lack of them.

"There is now a clear choice between the parties on law and order. Labour believes in fair rules for stronger and safer communities. We are taking tough action to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour, including tougher sentences for violent crime, and we are introducing neighbourhood policing to help communities feel safer. By contrast, the Conservatives would cut £160 million from the crime-fighting budget this year, equivalent to losing 3,500 police officers from our streets.

"The Tories have consistently voted against tougher sentences - including for murder, sexual and violent crimes.  They also oppose the greater use of DNA evidence to help track down criminals.
 
"While Labour stands up for communities by giving them a say in how offenders should payback for their crimes, the Tories dismiss our ways of making justice seen to be done as 'gimmicks'.

"While Labour are investing in families and public services in the downturn and working with our European partners to secure more trade abroad and more jobs at home, the Conservatives are committed to cuts at the worst possible time, and isolation in Europe - even at the cost of jobs at home."