Arson Task Group needed to tackle increase in attacks

Data^[1] shows that all but four London Boroughs have seen an increase in arson incidents over the past three years, with the London Assembly Fire Committee warning of the consequences this has had for Londoners’ sense of safety and wellbeing, as well as for property. 

The Committee has called on the Mayor of London to establish an Arson Task Group to tackle the significant and sustained increase. 

In a letter published today, the Committee wants strategic and coordinated action to address the issue. 

The recommendations in the letter are:

• The Mayor should convene the London Fire Brigade, London Boroughs and the Metropolitan Police Service to create an ‘Arson Task Group’. This group should develop partnerships between organisations and assess emerging risks.  
• The Greater London Authority (GLA) should consolidate data and analysis on arson and work with London Boroughs to create heat maps for each borough, mapping where hot spots are for arson offences to help inform risk prevention work. 

Chair of the London Assembly Fire Committee, Zack Polanski AM, said:

“Arson offences can have devastating consequences, and there has been an alarming increase in their number in recent years. 

“The Committee is calling on the Mayor to set up a Task Group which combines the expertise of the London Fire Brigade, London Boroughs and the Metropolitan Police Service.

“In the face of new and emerging risks, including the threat posed by hostile states, it is vital that the Mayor and the GLA play their part in tackling the dangers posed to Londoners by arson.”