§ 16. Sir H. Lucas-Toothasked the President of the Board of Trade what increase there has been in the rates charged by insurance companies against loss of stock by jewellers and silversmiths by burglary compared with similar rates charged one and 10 years ago. respectively.
§ Mr. DarlingThis information is not available to me. I understand that the rates depend on the nature of the risk involved and vary from area to area.
§ Sir H. Lucas-ToothIs the Minister aware that there has certainly been a very substantial increase? While it may be justified because of the growth of organised crime, does the hon. Gentleman appreciate that this causes hardship to jewellers when other prices are fixed? Will he make representations to his right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to take special precautions with a view to keeping down these rates?
§ Mr. DarlingThe second part of that supplementary question goes beyond what the Question asks. If, however, the hon. Member can let me have any information on this score, we will certainly look into it.