45. Mr. CROMPTON WOODasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the increase of sexual offences against young persons, as shown in the Report of the Departmental Committee just published, he will find time shortly for legislation with the object of making the penalties for criminal assaults against women and children adequate to the offence?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have been asked to reply. As I mentioned on Tuesday, the whole question is under consideration, but I am not in a position to make a statement.
Mr. WOODIn View of the increase of these offences during the last five years by about 50 per cent., may I urge my right hon. Friend to see that there is no delay in bringing in legislation to check this increase?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSAs I said on Tuesday last, I have received the Report of this Committee, but there is another very important Departmental Committee sitting at the Home Office with regard to young offenders, and I do not think it would be right to bring separate Bills before Parliament. I am awaiting the second Report, and then I hope to deal with the matter.