§ 3. Dr. David Kerrasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received concerning the large number of prostitutes breaking the law in the area of Bedford Hill, Balham; and what reply he has sent.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Dick Taverne)My right hon. Friend has not had representations on this subject.
§ Dr. KerrWill my hon. and learned Friend inform his right hon. Friend that I have had a number of representations on this topic, including, may I say, from my neighbour and constituent my hon. Friend the Member for Eton and Slough (Miss Lestor), who, I understand, has suffered from the situation which prevails there? Would not my hon. and learned Friend agree that the nuisance which arises from this kind of situation is due not to the existence of prostitutes but to the kerb crawling of the men who come seeking their prey in this area, and will he bear in mind the necessity for a fresh look at legislation to protect women in Bedford Hill and similar areas who are subject to the most appalling and uncivil behaviour on the part of kerb-crawling men?
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. There are many Questions on the Order Paper, and supplementary questions should be brief.
§ Mr. TaverneI note with interest that my hon. Friend has had approaches made to him on this subject. The only approach to us so far has been from him. We understand that the police have had only oral representations made to them, but I shall certainly take note of what he said.
§ Sir. T. BrintonOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. Should not this Question more properly have been put to the Solicitor-General?
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is not a point of order for me.