§ 27. Mr. Longdenasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will list the existing powers magistrates' courts have to exact financial restitution from persons convicted of vandalism.
§ Mr. CarlisleThe main powers are given by provisions in the Malicious Damage Act, 1861; Section 14(1) of the Criminal Justice Administration Act, 1914 (as amended); and Section 34 of the Magistrates' Courts Act, 1952 (as amended).
§ Mr. LongdenWhile thanking my hon. and learned Friend for that answer, is not the target for all these young hooligans their pockets, in view of the fact that it is no longer considered civilised to visit their sins on their backsides?
§ Mr. CarlisleI have a good deal of sympathy with what my hon. Friend says. The Criminal Damage Bill going through the House at the moment provides for the 1355 payment of compensation in magistrates' courts to a maximum of £400 by those guilty of offences of criminal damage.