§ 12. Mr. Costainasked the Minister of Public Building and Works what estimate he has made of the cost to his Department of vandalism against public buildings in 1964, 1965 and 1966; and what precautionary methods are being taken to safeguard these buildings.
§ Mr. PrenticeThe figures requested are not available. For most buildings the normal precautions which would be taken by a householder suffice. Where there is a high risk of vandalism or burglary, night watchmen are employed.
§ Mr. CostainHas the right hon. Gentleman noticed any increase in vandalism over recent years? If he has failed to stop it, can he nevertheless give the public advice on how they could stop it on their property?
§ Mr. PrenticeVery useful advice is given by the police to the public on these matters. I have no detailed figures about vandalism on public buildings. It would take a great deal of staff time to extract them from the general figures we have of accidental damage and other things which lead to the need for repairs.