Local shop owners will receive £12 million to tackle crime and vandalism on their doorsteps, as part of a government scheme to improve the security of local businesses.

The Home Office today announced regional funding allocations as part of a three-year £15 million scheme, launched in June 2001. The funding will be targeted at the most deprived areas.

Forum Response: British Retail Consortium

Bill Moyes, director deneral of the BRC, told ePolitix.com: "The Home Office should develop a long term strategy for reducing retail crime instead of short term isolated plans. This cash is not new and will not go very far when spread amongst the country's individual shop owners.

"Retail crime partnerships tackle retail crime more effectively at a fraction of the cost. We are seeking government funding to expand them to all shopping areas."