ACPO lead on statistics Deputy Chief Constable Douglas Paxton said:

"The latest crime statistics published today show police are continuing to reduce crime and maintain public confidence. Crime recorded by police in England and Wales fell by six per cent for the 12 months to June, while the independent Crime Survey for England and Wales also showed a six per cent decrease in overall crime, and remains broadly in line with police recorded data.

"All major categories of crime have fallen, most notably violence against the person offences, which was down six per cent, robbery offences down seven per cent - the lowest level in nearly 10 years - and homicide was down by 14 per cent. Decreases in household crime are also pleasing with householders three times less likely to be a victim of burglary than in 1995.

"Public confidence in the police has also remained steady with 62 per cent of people stating they believe that the police in their local area are dealing with the things that matter to people in the community.

"What is important to note is that these overall crime reductions have been achieved at a time when forces are facing significant cash savings. The service remains determined to continue to build on the good work reflected in these publications and the results are a credit to those officers and staff who have faced the challenge of major efficiencies while continuing to tackle crime in our communities."