"The moment a burglar steps over your threshold, and invades your property, with all the threat that gives to you, your family and your livelihood, I think they leave their human rights outside." - David Cameron

I think this is the view of most sane and sensible people, yet under the current government, it seems victims come a very poor second to criminals.  Sentencing seems to always take account of the social background of the vile people who burgle and rob hard working people, many of whom actually can't afford the high premiums insurers charge.  A slap on the wrist seems to be the preferable penalty for those who are caught - while those that do go to prison are released early under Labour's early release scheme.  These days, the human rights of the law breaker seem to take priority over those ehose privacy is violated.

If elected, the Conservatives will take a tougher approach to crime.  Yes, we will seek to rehabilitate criminals and we will help cure those whose addictions cause them to take this route in the first place.  But the balance has to be re-set.  It's time to remember what is right and what is wrong.  And in my view, that means being on the side of the victim.

David Cameron summed up what makes me a Conservative this afternoon.  I was in the hall for what I believe will be seen as an historic speech.  He said:

"I can look you in the eye and tell you that in a Conservative Britain: If you put in the effort to bring in a wage, you will be better off. If you save money your whole life, you’ll be rewarded. If you start your own business, we’ll be right behind you. If you want to raise a family, we’ll support you. If you’re frightened, we’ll protect you.If you risk your safety to stop a crime, we’ll stand by you. If you risk your life to fight for your country, we will honour you. Ask me what a Conservative government stands for and the answer is this, we will reward those who take responsibility, and care for those who can’t."

Usually political party leaders talk to the people in the hall, but this was a speech aimed at the voters, the people who are feeling the pain of broken Britain.  It was measured, honest, statesmanlike, sincere, emotional at times and above all, to the point.  I am pleased he spoke of the need to control immigration, the need to make Europe work for British interests, the need to make schools excellent, the guarantee of a free NHS regardless of a person's ability to pay.  And I was delighted with the strong assurance that the poorest in society will be at the heart of a Cameron government's agenda.  For the sake of people in Eltham and across this country, I hope people understand just what we are offering.