§ 24. Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that the police are not interfering against illegal evictions of tenants because they are often uncertain of the legal position; and if he will therefore make regulations requiring that the landlord is required to show the police the court eviction order, or other documents giving him legal authority.
§ Mr. SharplesDifficult legal problems may arise over an eviction, whether or not documents are produced. I do not think it would be right to seek powers to require the police to alter their rôle.
§ Mr. AllaunIs the Minister aware that many of these illegal evictions take place late at night or at weekends, when no local government officials are available and when only the police could stop them? Would not my suggestion invalidate the reason given for the present inactivity by the police in this matter?
§ Mr. SharplesThe function of the police in cases of eviction is clear. It is to prevent breaches of the peace; to make investigations on the spot into possible criminal offences; to warn those concerned of possible offences under the provisions of the Rent Act, 1965; and to report any such offences to the local authority. I believe that the police carry out their duties in this respect.
§ Mr. Elystan MorganIs it not as important for police officers to attend illegal evictions as to attend legal evictions, otherwise it will not be seen that the police are impartial in their rôle.
§ Mr. SharplesIf a complaint of an illegal eviction were made to the police, the police would attend.