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Homicide statistics
16/12/2008
Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill today made clear the Scottish Government's determination to continue to tackle the twin menaces of Scotland's knife culture and the "drink to get drunk" attitude that pervades Scottish society.
New figures published today show a slight reduction in the number of homicides in Scotland last year (114 compared to 119 in 2006-7) and the percentage of homicide cases where the accused was drunk or on drugs (45 per cent compared to 47 per cent).
The figures also show a slight increase in the number of people who were killed by the use of a sharp instrument (55 compared to 54).
Kenny MacAskill said:
"The Scottish Government is committed to making Scotland safer and stronger.
"We have already delivered record number of police officers onto our streets and into our communities, tackling crime and reassuring our communities. The most recent recorded crime figures published in September also showed recorded crime at its lowest for 25 years.
"However, we are not complacent and the latest homicide stats serve as a stark reminder that there are still far too many people using knives and that many are doing so while under the influence of drink or drugs.
"This deadly cocktail can so often lead to tragic consequences and that is why this Government is determined to tackle the country's knife culture.
"We welcome the slight reduction in deaths. However, one death is one too many. That is why we need to continue to challenge and change the bevvy and blades culture.
"We are working with the Violence Reduction Unit on tougher enforcement and changing attitudes to knife carrying. Action such as Medics Against Violence which will see senior medics from across Glasgow giving up their time for free to work directly with young people on the dangers of carrying a knife.
"And only last week we announced £1.6 million for the Community Initiative to Reduce Violence, which brings together police, local authority, education and health professionals to work with gangs in the East End of Glasgow to help them address their antisocial behaviour and find an alternative lifestyle.
"We are also taking action to tackle the "drink to get drunk" attitude in our country, which so often leads to violence, through considering bringing in minimum pricing and banning irresponsible promotions.
"An increased visible police presence, along with the other actions we are taking to tackle violence and alcohol abuse will help to drive down crime on our streets and in our communities."