"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.

The Shadow Home Secretary was in Eltham today and spelt out how things would be different if he takes control of the Home Office next year.  Criminals and yobs, you have been warned.  The end of the caution culture is nigh, there will be an end to the early release of prisoners, there will be a tougher approach to anti-social behaviour and the police will be able to take greater control of what cases actually reach the courts.

Chris Grayling heard from a number of residents today who had been victims of crime.  He also got to hear why people are so angry - and fearful of walking the streets.  As he said, it is almost never justified to be carrying a knife on the street - so why, when caught, are so many people getting away with it?  There should be an automatic presumption of a custodial sentence.

So many more people have emailed me or written to say they would have liked to attend today's meeting but could not take a day out of work.  I have passed their comments on and will ask Chris to return to Eltham at the earliest opportunity.  In the meantime, the next public meeting will be with Mark Francois MP at St Luke's Church Hall, Westmount Road on 29th October.  Doors open at 7pm.  Please join us.