Police bosses in England and Wales have set out new standards which would see the police attend all home burglaries.

The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) said chief constables will work to make sure this new national standard is brought into place "as soon as practically possible."

The decision comes as the new Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Mark Rowley announced that police would go to all reported house robberies in London.

The standard will apply to home breaking rather than the burglary of outbuildings and sheds.

Liberal Democrats say the move could be a 'box-ticking exercise'

Bournemouth Echo: David Parry/PA Liberal Democrats say new measure could become a 'box-ticking exercise'David Parry/PA Liberal Democrats say new measure could become a 'box-ticking exercise' (Image: David Parry/PA)

Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesperson, Alistair Carmichael said the move may be a "box-ticking' exercise" if not accompanied by proper funding from the Government.

He added: “While this is a positive step, without proper resources from the Government this pledge risks being nothing more than a box-ticking exercise.”

Why is this new burglary standard coming into place?

The College of Policing, which sets policing standards across England and Wales, found that swift attendance at the scene of the crime can go a long way in improving victim satisfaction, aiding investigations, and deterring further crimes in the area.

Public opinion and research undertaken by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services’ (HMICFRS) were also taken into consideration.

The NPCC Tweeted that they wanted to give people "peace of mind."

It was also found that the percentage of burglaries attended by police was at an all-time low, going down to just 50%.

Burglaries in England and Wales

The NPCC chair, Martin Hewitt said: “The number of burglaries is at an all-time low – down 51% over the past decade due to increased investment by police and partners in preventing them happening in the first place.

“Wherever you live in England and Wales you can be confident the police will attend if you experience the invasion of a home burglary. This should see more burglaries solved and more offenders prosecuted.”