§ 27. Mr. Graham Pageasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the average fine for the offence of shoplifting during the last convenient year and for previous years for which the figures are available; if he is satisfied that the penalties for shoplifting in England and Wales are a sufficient deterrent to offenders; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganIn each of the years 1966, 1967 and 1968 the average fine imposed by courts in England and Wales for stealing from shops and stalls was £9. The maximum fine on summary conviction of this offence is £400; there is no limit to the fine that may be imposed on conviction on indictment. In either case imprisonment may also tie ordered. The penalty imposed in any particular case is within the discretion of the court.
§ Mr. PageIs the hon. Gentleman aware that convictions for larceny from shops have doubled in the years 1960 to 1967? Is he further aware of the grave concern of retailers about the loss occasioned thereby? Does not he think that an average fine of £9 when the maximum fine is £400 indicates that the 683 courts are treating the matter a little lightly?
§ Mr. MorganI am aware of the increase complained of by the hon. Gentleman, but the rate of increase for this offence is not disproportionate to the increase in crime generally. Within the maxima imposed by Statute, it is for the courts to decide, after considering all the facts of a case and the circumstances of the offender, what should be the right penalty to impose. It is not for the Executive to interfere in such a matter.