Lib Dems' Graffiti Buster continues surprise clean-ups

1.14.32pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 28th May 2005

Andrew Dakers' latest surprise graffiti clean-up

This weekend Andrew Dakers, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson for Brentford & Isleworth, continued to drive forward his programme to tackle the blight of graffiti head-on. Andrew completed his latest 'surprise graffiti clean-up', this time on a tree, after his services had been auctioned at a local church's fundraising auction.

In the past year there has been growing concern across Brentford, Chiswick, Hounslow and Isleworth at the rising level of graffiti crime. There is clear evidence that a high level of graffiti decreases property value, has an adverse effect on commerce and increases peoples' fear of crime.

During the General Election Andrew launched the first wave of his campaign with the publication of a fact-sheet for local residents and businesses on how to clean up graffiti.

BEFORE

Andrew believes that the only way to reduce the quantity of graffiti is by addressing the source of the problem. He commented:

"I am not an advocate of locking up young offenders for graffiti offences; they are liable to simply become worse criminals. Magistrates must issue 'reparation orders' for offenders to spend time cleaning up the mess they and others have created.

"At the same time we must channel the energy of graffiti vandals elsewhere. In too many parts of Hounslow there isn't enough for young people to do, so we must continue to invest in our youth service."

...and AFTER

Graffiti is neither a quick nor an easy problem to solve, but the Liberal Democrats are committed to persuading people to get involved and help to clean up, even if simply on their own street.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. Hounslow Council will bear the cost of graffiti removal, but only if it is of an overtly racist or offensive nature.

2. A free graffiti clean-up kit is now available to community groups through the Community Environment Team. Call 020 8583 5071 to place your order.

3. Andrew Dakers' 'Graffiti Busters' fact sheet can be downloaded from www.andrewdakers.com