The numbers of closed circuit television cameras are to be increased across England and Wales as the government puts �33m into 180 projects designed to cut crime.

Home Secretary Jack Straw said the move was part of the government's drive to step up crime prevention and combat the fear of crime.

He said: "As an extra set of eyes for the police, CCTV is always 'on the beat' and able to provide an accurate and permanent record of what and who has been seen.

"This technology has proved its worth in reducing crime and making people feel safer."

Tackling car crime

The home secretary said CCTV has been particularly effective in reducing car crime.

Monday's announcement is part of the government's plan to spend �153m on CCTV projects over the next three years.

Junior Housing Minister Chris Mullin said the move would help safeguard residents and that the government would ensure that people's fears over possible breaches of privacy would be addressed.

He said CCTVs, "will greatly improve the quality of life for local residents and help regenerate of some of our most vulnerable communities."

The police have welcomed the measures with a spokesman for the Association of Chief Police Officers Graeme Gerrard saying the cameras both "deter offenders but also reassure the public".