1 in 4 police assaulted: a sad reality

Family Party leader Richard Lewis says an increase in assaults on police reflects a deeper issue relating to a decline in societal attitudes towards law enforcement. The number of assaults against police increased to 2248 last year - the equivalent of one in four officers being assaulted. In 2006, there were 2123 assaults on police.

"It's a sad reality when one in four police officers turn up to work expecting to get the bash during the course of their duty. It's not just about equipping our good men and women on the frontlines to do the job. We've got to face up to the underlying causes that are creating this culture of disregard towards the police and authority in general," says Mr Lewis.

He says Government's undermining of parents in the home through laws like the anti-smacking bill and facilitating underage abortions without parental knowledge or consent sends the wrong message to emerging generations. He also attributes fatherlessness towards the increase in violence in community.

"Home is the first place of formation where children gain their first understanding of authority, responsibility, boundaries and consequences for bad behaviour - this is where responsible dads are irreplaceable. Moreover, nearly a decade under Labour has stripped parents of their power, treating parents like children and children like adults. Give police better protection. But don't expect to see things get any better until strength is restored to the family unit and we collectively raise standards of expectation for our kids in the home and community," he added.

A former South Auckland police sergeant, Richard Lewis is running for the Manukau East Electorate.

ENDS

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