Should the Crime and Policing Act 2026 grant police new powers to tackle antisocial behaviour, shoplifting and knife crime?

The Crime and Policing Act 2026 received Royal Assent on 29 April 2026. It introduces respect orders for antisocial behaviour, a specific offence of assaulting a retail worker, repeal of section 176 of the 2014 Act on low-value shop theft, expanded drug testing on arrest, warrantless entry powers to seize stolen goods, and new offences and penalties for weapons. The government states it supports the Safer Streets Mission to halve knife crime and violence against women and girls while rebuilding public confidence.