§ 20. Mr. Fitchasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many women have been sentenced to terms of imprisonment under the Street Offences Act.
§ Mr. VosperBetween 16th August, 1959, when the Street Offences Act came into operation, and 21st October, 33 women were sentenced to terms of imprisonment on conviction of offences under the Act. In addition, 53 women served terms of imprisonment in default of payment of a fine.
§ Mr. FitchIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that since the Act began to operate the call-girl racket has increased? Has his attention been drawn to a booklet entitled "Ladies Directory", which, I understand, has been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions?
§ Mr. VosperI will take note of what the hon. Member has said. The purpose of the Act, however, which is to drive the women off the streets, has, I think the hon. Member will agree, been remarkably successful.