§ 107. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Home Secretary how many cases of robbery with violence, or of raids on shops, where the perpetrators have had the assistance of 496 motor cars, have occurred in the Metropolitan Police District area during the past three months; and in how many cases have convictions been secured?
§ Sir H. SAMUELDuring the three months ended 31st January, there were 32 cases of robbery with violence; eight persons are now on remand in respect of three of these cases; none have yet been convicted. There were 99 raids on shops; and 21 persons have been convicted or found guilty, and 10 others are awaiting hearing or trial in respect of 17 of these cases.
§ Sir W. DAVISONIn view of the large number of crimes aided by motor cars, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of inflicting some special penalty in the case of those crimes of violence and raids on shops where motors are used?
§ Sir H. SAMUELThe question of penalties is a matter for the Court. The maximum penalty allowed by law is very heavy. The Commissioner of Police is very much concerned about this matter and is giving it his close personal attention.