§ 67. Mr. HARDIEasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that, at a conference of national probation officers held in Glasgow on 19th March, Assistant Chief Constable Donald McPherson, of the city police force, stated that, following the introduction of the means test, crime in Glasgow had increased by leaps and bounds; and whether his Department has taken any action to remedy this condition of affairs?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe number of crimes against property in Glasgow has been increasing every year since 1927, with the exception of 1934. There is no evidence to show tint the increase since 1931 was due to the operation of the means test. As regards the second part 2597 of the question the police are dealing with this kind of crime by concentrated and improved methods of patrolling, including motor and cycle patrols and the use of police boxes and wireless.
§ Mr. HARDIEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the answer is a contradiction of the statement made by the gentleman mentioned in the question—a gentleman who is daily in contact with the subject?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe gentleman in question stated the causes of crime, and he gave no evidence to justify any such statement.
§ Mr. HARDIEIf I supply the right hon. Gentleman with the evidence given at that meeting will he take action in some way?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI should be very glad to have the evidence from the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. HARDIEI will supply the evidence.
§ Mr. BUCHANANWill the right hon. Gentleman also inquire into the effect of the Anomalies Act?