Tories attack 'U-turn' over victims

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Shadow home secretary Dominic Grieve said ministers had abandoned the proposal, which has been heavily criticised, and accused the Government of indulging in "gimmickry" to tackle the problem.

But Home Secretary Jacqui Smith insisted it was never the intention for youths to be taken to A&E wards to meet victims, however doctors may explain the "gruesome injuries" that knives can cause.

The Tories accused the Government of performing a U-turn over the issue of offenders meeting victims of knife crime on hospital wards.

Shadow home secretary Dominic Grieve said: "This is yet another Government announcement that has been conjured up in three days and collapsed in three hours.

"Ministers should realise that gimmickry will not solve this very serious problem."