HC Deb 25 February 1932 vol 262 c538
24. Captain ERSKINE-BOLST

asked the Home Secretary whether the latest police statistics shows an increase or a decrease in the number of young men charged with petty offences as a result of drink?

Sir H. SAMUEL

I regret that there are no statistics giving the information desired.

Captain ERSKINE-BOLST

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that statements are going about the country alleging that there is an increase; and, in fairness to the younger generation, will he state the facts?

Sir H. SAMUEL

I regret that I have not statistics which would be sufficiently accurate to meet the reports to which the hon. Members refers.

Viscountess ASTOR

Is it the case that more often than not in the police court, in children's cases, the police say that a man was under the influence of drink when they arrested him?

Sir H. SAMUEL

The influence of drink is very often a matter of opinion.