MPs will work together to tackle acid attacks after East London and Redbridge named as hotspots

In light of acid attacks in the borough, MPs are working together to toughen up the laws around the possession and use of corrosive substances.

Ilford North MP Wes Streeting said he fully understands residents’ “fear and anger about the recent spate” and has spoken to the police about it.

“I will be working with east London MPs to see what we can do to toughen up the law and to once again raise with ministers the urgent need for more police officers on our streets,” he told the Recorder.

“People should also bear in mind that many of these incidents are gang related, although this doesn’t make any incident more acceptable, it should reassure that the risk to the general public is much lower.”

The police have been working with the Home Office and other partners to create a strategy on how to deal with corrosive attacks.

This includes looking into possible restrictions around the sale of corrosive substances in conjunction with retailers.

“The good thing is that large companies are coming to us to see what they can do to help reduce the harm, for example, by making certain products available to only over-18s,” said a police spokesman.

“This would be voluntary now on their part until any legislative changes can be made.

“The corner shops are a bit more difficult so we need to work with the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and other partners.”