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“Rising knife crime is causing horrendous destruction and grief in our communities and councils are uncovering some shocking cases of illegal knife sales which risk fuelling this tragic epidemic. Retailers must ask for proof of age if they suspect the buyer is under 25."

“Councils will continue to get on with what they need to do to ensure people are safe in their homes. This includes replacing materials on high-rise blocks affected by these fire safety tests."

“With test fails affecting buildings owned by a range of different landlords across the country, it is clear that the current building regulation system has failed. We need a commitment from government that it will meet the exceptional cost to councils of removing and replacing cladding and insulation on high-rise blocks as a result.”

“There have now been 22,500 new cases of FGM identified in just over four years, which highlights the size of the challenge facing all agencies seeking an end to this form of abuse, which is destroying the lives of children and young people in communities across the country."

“There needs to be a greater focus on prevention and early intervention measures to tackle the root causes, support more victims, and stop domestic abuse occurring in the first place."

Cllr Simon Blackburn, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, responds to the Government’s announcement of the introduction of medical examiners and reforms to death certification in England.

"Tackling violence against women and girls and ensuring everyone can enjoy public spaces and venues at night as we return to a vibrant night-time economy is a top priority for local authorities."

"Tackling domestic abuse is an issue that councils take very seriously which is why we support further measures to improve work with local partners to help support more victims and stop this horrendous crime."

"Councils are determined to help tackle violence against women and girls in our local communities, and work alongside police, the NHS, and charities to make sure we do all we can to protect women and girls from all forms of abuse."

"In bringing release dates forward, this will ensure prison-leavers have enough time to access the right help and support to prevent them heading back towards previous criminal activities.”