UK police minister’s purse stolen at police conference

United Kingdom’s Police Minister Dame Diana Johnson had her purse stolen from the hotel where she gave a speech at a conference for senior police officers on Tuesday. Thieves struck while Dame Diana was giving a speech blaming the Conservatives for an “epidemic of antisocial behaviour, theft and shoplifting,” at the annual Police Superintendents’ Association […]

United Kingdom’s Police Minister Dame Diana Johnson had her purse stolen from the hotel where she gave a speech at a conference for senior police officers on Tuesday.

Thieves struck while Dame Diana was giving a speech blaming the Conservatives for an “epidemic of antisocial behaviour, theft and shoplifting,” at the annual Police Superintendents’ Association (PSA) conference at a hotel in Kenilworth.

A member of Home Office staff also had belongings taken. A 56-year-old man from Coventry has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and released on bail in connection to the incident, Warwickshire Police said.

The Home Office said no security risks had been identified.

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Dame Diana used her speech to attack the Conservative Party’s legacy and outline the government’s plans to boost neighbourhood policing.

Labour’s mission “is to restore respect for the rule of law on British streets, including restoring respect for the police, which has sadly been eroded over many years,” she said.

A police spokesperson said: “The theft occurred some time between 11.00 BST-13.15 on Tuesday.

“Enquiries are ongoing. A 56-year-old man from Coventry has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.” (BBC)