“This a huge and welcome change.”

Very few days go by where someone in North West Cambridgeshire doesn't contact me about antisocial behaviour - and for good reason, writes North West Cambridgeshire MP Sam Carling.

No one should have to worry, when going out and about, that they might be faced with public drunkenness and drug-taking; antisocial and intimidating use of public spaces; or the prospect of being knocked down by an e-bike. Those experiences are upsetting and unpleasant, especially if it feels like the perpetrators will get away with it, as it has felt up until now.

That's why I am delighted that this Labour Government is introducing new Respect Orders to make our streets and communities safer and more welcoming. These are new behavioural orders designed to help police, local authorities and housing associations take more effective action against those who are repeat offenders for antisocial behaviour.

Courts will be able to ban adult offenders from engaging in specified activities relating to their brand of antisocial behaviour - for example, banning public drinking on a particular high street. And positive requirements will be included, too, requiring individuals to take action to challenge the root cause of their behaviour. Take our scenario above: as part of their order, public drinkers and drug takers might be compelled to seek treatment.

Breach of an order can have serious and immediate consequences. It will be a criminal offence, with a full suite of options – including arrests, fines, community sentences, and a prison sentence of up to two years in the most serious cases – available to police.

That's part of the reason Respect Orders are a big upgrade on previous ASB powers. It fills a gap that gives local agencies the stronger enforcement power they need to tackle the most relentless adult ASB offenders, as well as providing relief to local communities.

This a huge and welcome change. It means that my constituents can travel around Peterborough and the villages a bit more relaxed, and a bit more confident that antisocial behaviour will actually be dealt with.

Respect Orders come as part of the Government's flagship Crime and Policing Act, which I was delighted to support. New, strong powers will ensure that Police and local agencies are able to tackle antisocial behaviour, shop theft and street crime.

These are the things that make a real difference to people's everyday lives. Because we shouldn't have to put up with bad behaviour on our streets. This Labour Government has said enough is enough.