Today in a visit to a boxing club in Bristol, Liberal Democrat Leader Menzies Campbell stated that there are no ‘quick fixes’ in tackling gang culture and crime.

Menzies Campbell said:

"Problems of gang crime cannot be solved by politician-led summits, more laws and longer sentences.

"We need a community-centred approach to tackling the cycle of deprivation, drug culture and lack of recreational opportunities in inner cities.

"As this youth club demonstrates, by giving young people opportunities they can turn their own lives around.

"By getting involved in sport young people gain confidence, respect and self-discipline. All of these qualities can help to stop the downward spiral towards a life of crime.

"This government’s approach has focused on chasing headlines rather than giving communities the means to tackle the causes of crime."