And construction plant thefts are becoming a major problem, with stolen plant heading south, possibly for use on building projects for the 2012 Olympics in London.

Mr Hughes made his revelations at the launch of the new Yorkshire and Humber Regional Business Crime Forum at a conference at Doncaster Racecourse.

The Forum brings together representatives of the police, local and national government and businesses to combat the growing menace of business crime.

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Mr Hughes hailed the creation of the Forum as a ground-breaking, regionally focused initiative, originating in South Yorkshire and unveiled plans to increase the focus on plant thefts in coming months.

Transport Minister and Doncaster Central MP Rosie Winterton told the conference: "I want to see this region as a safe place to do business and continuing to attract inward investment.

"Business crime has a detrimental effect on the economic development and growth, resulting in a downward spiral in the quality of life and it is important to get people involved in this Forum."

Delegates were told about grants and other support which will be available from from the already established South Yorkshire Business Crime Reduction Centre and how to tackle crime collectively, sharing best practice and addressing common problems.

The new Forum is establishing theme groups to tackle specific crime challenges faced by particular business sectors.


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