Policing minister Diana Johnson's bag stolen while at police conference

Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson ’s handbag was stolen while she was at a conference for senior police officers on Tuesday.

The Labour MP's possessions were swiped from the hotel where she was speaking during the Police Superintendents' Association event in Kenilworth on Tuesday.

Warwickshire Police have arrested a 56-year-old man from Coventry on suspicion of burglary.

He has been released on bail as investigations continue.

In her speech, Dame Diana criticised the "epidemic of antisocial behaviour, theft and shoplifting " under Conservative rule. She pledged to "restore respect for the rule of law on British streets".

"Too many town centres and high streets across the country have been gripped by an epidemic of anti-social behaviour, theft and shoplifting, which is corroding our communities and cannot be allowed to continue," she said.

The Home Office confirmed that Johnson had her belongings stolen and said no security risks had been identified.

President of the Police Superintendents' Association (PSA) Nick Smart warned at the event that early prisoner releases were creating a "storm" for police.

He said inmates were being freed without proper plans, leaving officers to deal with the fallout.

Warwickshire Police said it is investigating a reported theft of a purse at a hotel on the B4115 in Kenilworth.

A statement read: "The theft occurred some time between 11.00-13.15 on Tuesday. Inquiries are ongoing.

"A 56-year-old man, from Coventry, has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and has since been released on bail while inquiries continue."

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