The causes of crime are varied and complex. We are kidding ourselves if we believe that there is a quick fix solution or one way of addressing the factors which contribute to criminal behaviour. Apart from issues of personal morality and free choice, tackling the causes of crime involves addressing a wide range of societal issues such as marginalisation, educational and social deficits, housing issues, questions of parental responsibility and so on. The national crime council has published a consultation document on a partnership approach to tackling the underlying causes of crime and has engaged in a wide-ranging process of public consultation on it. The council is finalising its report and recommendations on the subject and I look forward to receiving the recommendations, particularly those relating to how crime prevention partnerships might be structured. I intend to examine the recommendations expeditiously with a view to their implementation.