Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Community Safety Mike Pringle MSP has welcomed support for schemes that encourage young people to break free from gangs and violence, but urged ministers to take a holistic approach to cutting crime in our communities.

Commenting, Mr Pringle said:

“Schemes designed to divert young people from offending through attitudinal change programmes and diversionary activities are valuable. The long term solution is to focus on the root cause of offending and intervene early to divert young people away from crime.

“I am pleased that the Justice Secretary has accepted that this principle is important, but I am now looking for him to back up this approach with further action.

“Liberal Democrats will press the Government to tackle social exclusion and poverty in our communities and create more routes into employment and training for young people.

"A holistic approach is needed if we are successfully to tackle crime in our communities."