Dudley MP Sonia Kumar has led a high-profile debate in Westminster Hall calling for stronger action to tackle anti-social behaviour and throwing her support behind the Government’s new Crime and Policing Bill.
Raising the debate herself, Kumar placed Dudley’s growing concerns firmly on the parliamentary agenda, highlighting the day-to-day impact of vandalism, fly-tipping, drug dealing, joyriding and intimidation on local residents and businesses.
Praise for police
Central to her message was strong backing for new measures aimed at persistent offenders. She praised local police officers for their commitment under pressure and welcomed the introduction of Respect Orders, tougher closure powers for nuisance properties, and increased penalties for repeat crimes.
“These changes are about giving communities the tools they need to take back control,” Kumar said. “People in Dudley are tired of seeing the same offenders cause disruption without consequence. This Bill sends a clear message that enough is enough.”
76% rise in crime over past decade
Throughout the debate, Kumar struck a balance between criticism of long-term underfunding and a constructive approach to rebuilding community safety. She pointed to a 76% rise in crime in Dudley over the past decade and the loss of 700 police officers across the West Midlands since 2010, but also welcomed renewed investment in neighbourhood policing – including £200 million from central government and the redeployment of 150 officers led by West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster.
While enforcement was a key focus, Kumar also called for greater investment in prevention, especially for young people facing challenges linked to poverty, mental health and lack of opportunity. “We must address the causes, not just the symptoms,” she said.
Drugs
Real-life accounts from her constituency, including drug activity in Oak Street and off-road biking in Upper Gornal, gave weight to her argument that residents feel let down – and want to see swift, visible action.
Her speech earned praise from Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Safeguarding Jess Phillips MP, who said she was “delighted the people of Dudley have someone who fights so diligently for them.”
Kumar closed by reaffirming her commitment to holding ministers accountable and securing fairer funding for areas like Dudley. “These new powers must come with the backing to enforce them. Our communities deserve no less.”
The debate underlined Kumar’s growing influence – and her determination to deliver results for Dudley on one of the issues that matters most to its people.
