Crime Prevention Panels

HC Deb 09 March 1967 vol 742 cc1737-8

18. Mr. Rose

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will take steps to set up regional and local crime prevention panels.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

At its first meeting, on 25th January, the Standing Committee on Crime Prevention decided, in principle, to recommend the setting up of a local crime prevention organisation. It is now considering what form of organisation would be most appropriate.

Mr. Rose

While thanking my right hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him if he is aware that this is vitally important in securing the co-operation and assistance of the public in combating crime at local level? Is he further aware that it will create greater public interest and awareness of the perils of crime and should help towards better relations between police and public?

Mr. Jenkins

I am sure that it is important to have this organisation operating at local as well as national level. My hon. Friend and the House may be interested to know that crime prevention panels have been in operation at Bristol and Nottingham and, in addition, there is an important campaign which has recently been started in Sheffield.

Mr. Iremonger

Can the Home Secretary tell the House what steps he is taking to involve the schools in the educational aspect of this?

Mr. Jenkins

Involving the schools in the educational part of this is important, but in order to give exact details I would require notice.