13. Mr. Edward Taylorasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications how many telephone kiosks were damaged by vandals in the most recent annual period for which figures are available; and what were the comparable figures in each of the previous three years.
§ Sir J. EdenThe number of incidents of vandalism for the year ending 31st March, 1972 was 161,000.
The comparable figures for 1969, 1970 and 1971 were 153,000, 171,000 and 152,000 respectively.
Mr. TaylorAs during this period there has been a substantial reduction in the number of public telephone kiosks, are not these figures extremely serious? Is my right hon. Friend aware of how vital this question is for those who regard public telephone kiosks as their only link with emergency services? Has my right hon. Friend considered bringing in stiffer penalties for people who engage in vandalism in kiosks?
§ Sir J. EdenPenalties are a matter for other authorities than me. I agree with my hon. Friend that this is an extremely serious matter. It is wanton destruction of public property made available for the general use and convenience of the public. In 1971–72 the cost of repairing damaged kiosks caused by vandalism was £426,000. It is absurd that we have to spend money to put right destruction which has been caused so wantonly.
§ Mr. DalyellHaving asked five Questions last Session and been given five soothing answers by the Minister's predecessor, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman what consideration is being given to the suggestion of the Post Office Consultative Users Council in Scotland that kiosks should be placed inside cafés and other institutions where, perhaps, they could be protected? This is a fairly constructive suggestion.
§ Sir J. EdenThe Post Office is itself giving every possible encouragement to owners of premises of the kind described by the hon. Gentleman to install and rent coin box equipment. I agree with the hon. Gentleman that this would be a considerable help in meeting this problem.