NEW figures have shown the number of arsons in Wiltshire have soared by 44 per cent.
Official fire statistics from the last six years revealed the sharp increase.
Over the same period, the number of malicious vehicle fires a key indicator of burnt out, abandoned cars have almost quadrupled.
West Wiltshire MP Andrew Murrison said the new figures revealed how the government was failing to meet its target of reducing arson by 30 per cent.
"This is yet another area where the Government has failed to deliver its promises.
"Abandoned cars are hazardous for children and encourage more vandalism and crime in our neighbourhoods."
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