RISHI CRIME BLITZ TO WOO RED WALL

PM gets tough as his popularity soars

- David Williamson

RISHI SUNAK will launch a law and order blitz this week amid surging Tory hopes he can lead the party to election victory.

Tough action to punish yobs who terrorise neighbourhoods is at the heart of a crackdown that will see vandals in jumpsuits forced to wash police cars and clean up graffiti.

A further announcement of measures to stop migrants being housed in hotels is strongly expected. Ministers are understood to want to use out-of-service ferries.

The latest crime-fighting measures will be seen as a pitch to voters in “Red Wall” seats.

Traditionally held by Labour, their swing to the Conservatives in 2019 secured a landslide victory for Boris Johnson.

And Mr Sunak’s plans are expected to add to his personal approval ratings.

They have soared since he unveiled a salvo of controversial policies, including the toughest measures yet to stop small boats crossing the Channel.

The Prime Minister said: “For too long, people have put up with the scourge of antisocial behaviour in their neighbourhoods.

“These are not minor crimes. They disrupt people’s daily lives, hold businesses back and erode the sense of safety and community that brings people together.

“That’s why I’m bringing forward a new plan to crack down on this behaviour once and for all – so that everyone can feel proud of where they live.”

The move comes after a watershed week for the Tory leader, one that has seen his fortunes transformed.

As his predecessor Mr Johnson faced tough questions over No10 parties, for which he could even face a by-election, Mr Sunak oversaw a vote rubber-stamping his new Brexit deal for Northern Ireland.