The government is under pressure to increase police funding and officer numbers

The number of violent offences that lead to prosecution has plunged, new figures reveal.

The data, obtained by the Labour Party from the House of Commons library, reveal that over the past six years:

■ The proportion of homicides — whether murder or manslaughter — that led to charges fell from 92% to 56%

■ Firearm offences that went to court halved to 36%

■ Robberies resulting in charges fell from 93% to 13%.

■ The government is under pressure to increase police funding and officer numbers in England and Wales. Last week Sajid Javid, the home secretary, signalled he would fight for resources. However, sources suggested that Philip Hammond, the chancellor, would prioritise the NHS.

Louise Haigh, the shadow police minister, said the criminal