HC Deb 24 June 1971 vol 819 cc1570-1
9. Mr. Boyden

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will convene a conference of chief constables to consider improved methods of controlling vandalism.

Mr. Sharples

My right hon. Friend is in regular touch with chief constables about matters of this kind and does not feel justified in convening a special conference.

Mr. Boyden

Do the figures show that some areas are very much better in controlling vandalism than others? Would it not be a good idea for bad areas to get advice from the better ones?

Mr. Sharples

Yes, and there is a constant exchange of views between chief constables on matters of this kind. They are well aware of the problem.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is grave disquiet in local authorities about the amount of vandalism going on where the police are unable to help, quite apart from that on British Railways, which have their own police? Will he ask his right hon. Friend to look again at this serious matter?

Mr. Sharples

I do not underestimate the problem, but the Criminal Damage Bill which is at present before Parliament provides a maximum penalty of 10 years' imprisonment for anyone convicted on indictment of intentionally damaging or destroying another person's property.

Mr. Freeson

Will the hon. Gentleman consider, in consultation with his right hon. and hon. Friends, the possibility of establishing a high-level committee of inquiry or Royal Commission to examine the root causes of violence and vandalism in modern society?

Mr. Sharples

Yes, certainly. But the hon. Gentleman knows that the Institute of Criminology at Cambridge University is undertaking a study into this matter at present.

Mr. Gurden

Is my hon. Friend aware that the delay in carrying out a compulsory purchase order leaves property vacant and subject to extra vandalism?

Mr. Sharples

Yes, I am. This is a serious problem for the police.