HC Deb 25 June 1942 vol 380 cc2143-4
28. Major Stourton

asked the Home Secretary the number of cases of robbery, or attempted robbery, with violence reported in the Metropolitan police area during the past three months to the latest convenient date; and whether the figures show a ratio of increase compared with the period of the previous 12 months?

Mr. Peake

Forty-three cases of robbery with violence and assaults with intent to rob were reported in the Metropolitan Police District during the three months ended 31st May, 1942. There were 177 cases in the 12 months immediately preceding, giving an average figure of about 44 for every three months during that period. The figure for the corresponding three months of 1941 was 38.

Major Stourton

Will my hon. Friend give the House the assurance that no effort will be spared to stamp out this particularly loathsome form of crime?

Mr. Peake

I think the hon. and gallant Member had better put that Question on the Paper. He asked for statistical information, and I have given it.

Major Stourton

Surely the hon. Gentleman can give an assurance that every effort will be made to stamp out this particular form of crime?

Mr. Peake

Every effort is made all the time to stamp out all forms of crime.

Major Leighton

Would it not be a good thing to warn the country and ask people to carry some weapon with which to protect themselves?