§ 25. Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will now take steps to distinguish, in the crime statistics for the purpose of identification, between thefts from supermarkets and thefts from non-self-service shops.
§ Mr. CarlisleMy right hon. Friend is not at present satisfied that the extra staff and expenditure which would be needed to record additional information of this kind would be justified.
§ Mr. AdleyBut is my hon. and learned Friend aware that supermarket shopping has brought about a fundamental social change in the last few years, which has brought problems to a number of people? Is he further aware that some supermarkets are now employing security firms which seem more intent on cure than on prevention? Would he seriously have a long hard look at this, because a small but significant number of people are finding themselves in very great difficulties?
§ Mr. CarlisleI am fully aware of my hon. Friend's concern and interest in this matter, but I do not think this would justify keeping statistics in the way he asks.
§ Mr. ProudfootDoes my hon. and learned Friend admit that there is no technical difference between the amount of shrinkage in both types of store mentioned in the question?
§ Mr. CarlisleI cannot answer that without further notice.
§ Mr. AdleyOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment as early as possible.