HC Deb 15 December 1938 vol 342 cc2179-80
75. Mr. J. Morgan

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the increasing losses sustained by farmers in various counties from after-dark thieves believed to be using motor-vehicles; and whether he is prepared to recommend an experimental system of police licensing for the vehicular movement of farm livestock between sundown and sunrise?

Sir S. Hoare

I understand that the police have received a number of complains of offences of this kind, but I do not know that the number shows any significant increase. The police are fully alive to the importance of co-operating to check this class of crime. They already have certain powers to inspect vehicles carrying livestock, and it appears unlikely that a system of police licensing of movement of livestock by night would be a practicable solution of the problem or acceptable to farmers.

Mr. Morgan

Then is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there have been 15 such cases in the county of Northampton alone in recent weeks and that no proceedings have been taken in any case?

Sir S. Hoare

I am not aware of the actual number of cases in the county of Northampton. The figures, however, go to show that there has been no significant increase of this kind for the whole country.

Mr. Morgan

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries into the case of Northamptonshire, as to whether or not it represents a marked increase in that area?