HC Deb 02 December 1971 vol 827 cc633-4
11. Mr. Raphael Tuck

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many representations he has received asking for an increase in the minimum penalty for persons who assault licensees of premises.

Mr. Carlisle

None recently.

Mr. Tuck

Is the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that I have received a number of letters from constituents asking for protection because they have been attacked? Is he aware that it appears that this kind of crime is on the increase? Will he consider raising the minimum penalties for such crimes in an attempt to reduce the number of assaults?

Mr. Carlisle

I am aware of the general concern felt about all crimes of violence but as the statistics cannot show and never have shown the circumstances of the offence or the status of the victim, I cannot comment on the hon. Member's view that this particular type of assault is increasing. As to minimum penalties, we have no such penalties under other systems in the law.

Mr. William Price

Allowing for the fact that figures are not available, as was said in an answer to me yesterday, is the hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there is widespread feeling in the licensing trade that publicans are not getting protection, that many are being subjected to crimes of violence and that when those who commit these crimes eventually come to court the sentences are ludicrously lenient?

Mr. Carlisle

The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that he cannot expect any Minister to comment on a sentence given in any particular case by a court. This must be a matter for the court, within the framework laid down by Parliament. As to the first part of this question, we will look at this.