19 May 2010

The continuation of the relationship with the new government is vital for the security of the nation
The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has reacted to an announcement of a hung Parliament.

James Kelly, Chief Executive, comments: "Politics and public affairs have long been at the heart of the BSIA's activity, and we have worked hard over the recent decade to forge strong working relationships with the previous Labour Government."

"The continuation of this relationship is vital for the security of the nation, and as such any coalition that is formed following this result will need to be fully briefed of the importance of the private security industry in combating crime and terrorism."

"The BSIA will be working hard over coming weeks to build on new relationships forged within recent months and will be engaging with key figures in the new political landscape to reinforce the industry's message and to ensure that our ongoing relationship with Government remain unaffected by political uncertainty."

"Key issues we will be taking forward to the new Government include the ongoing fight against cash and valuables in transit (CVIT) crime, the continued engagement of the private security industry with CONTEST, the UK's national counter-terror strategy, and the revision of the Private Security Industry Act of 2001."

With this in mind, the BSIA has launched its new government manifesto video, detailing the Association's aims and objectives in engaging with the new Government.

To see James Kelly discuss the issues in more detail, watch the BSIA's video, hosted on Politics.co.uk.

To find out more about the BSIA, visit their website.