March 30, 2006: Latest ASBO Figures

Local authorities in England and Wales are continuing to take action against anti-social behaviour, according to the latest set of quarterly Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) statistics published today. Statistics on the numbers of anti-social behaviour orders issued are reported to the Home Office by the Courts.

Figures for the period April 1999 to September 2005 shows the total number of ASBOs issued (as reported to the Home Office) stood at 7,356 on 30 September 2005.

Of these, 816 were issued between July and September 2005, representing 11% of the total number of all ASBOs issued. This is down 132 (14%) on the previous quarter (April to June 2005), but a rise of 54 (7%) on the same quarter last year. Of those ASBOs issued, 55% were to adults and 43% to juveniles.

ASBOs are one of a range of tools that are available aimed at improving and modifying anti-social behaviour, along with staged warnings, Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs), fixed penalty notices and parenting contracts.

Home Office Minister Hazel Blears commented:

"Today's statistics show that local authorities, the police and the courts are not hesitating to use ASBOs to clamp down on the problem. I am extremely encouraged that they continue to be used. Over the past twelve months we have seen enthusiastic take-up of ASBOs, which sends out a clear message to those people who persist in this behaviour that action will be taken against them."