Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has hit back at calls from the Opposition for a State of Emergency to address crime.

Speaking during a media conference today, he insisted that the previous SoE failed to address crime.

He added that such a measure would also harm the local economy.

Dr Rowley said options have been examined, with an SoE not considered the best option at this time given the number of downsides.

Meanwhile, regarding crime talks called for by the Opposition, Dr Rowley dismissed claims that both sides were not trying, and instead accused the Opposition of being the stumbling block.