§ 15. Mr. Crouchasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department in view of the increase of crimes of violence in England and Wales, from 2,533 in 1936 to 7,188 in 1951, what steps he proposes to take to bring about a reduction of crimes of this nature.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI wish that there were a simple remedy to this problem. The increase in crime gives cause for great concern to all of us. I have been giving anxious thought to it and I should welcome any suggestions which my hon. Friend may wish to put to me as to what steps might usefully be taken.
§ Mr. CrouchI thank my right hon. and learned Friend for his reply, but does he not consider it our gravest social problem that citizens engaged in their lawful pursuits should be robbed, maimed and murdered daily in our towns and cities? Does he feel that proper use is being made of the specials to assist the regular police in maintaining law and order?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI shall consider that suggestion. I have answered Questions on this point and I assure the House that I am personally considering it as carefully as I can.