Burglary levels have plummeted by almost a quarter between 1997 and 1999, the latest British Crime Survey from the Home Office reveals.

The survey shows that there were nearly 1.28m burglaries on domestic premises during that time, compared with 1.62m in the two preceding years – a 21% drop.

Home secretary Jack Straw said: "It shows what can be achieved when particular types of crime are targeted. It is no accident that burglary rates are down by more than a fifth to their lowest level for a decade."

Other highlights of the study were a 15% fall in motor theft. But the most worrying aspect of the report was a 14% rise in robberies and a 29% rise in violence by strangers.


The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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