HC Deb 09 November 1972 vol 845 cc1183-4
27. Mr. Fowler

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what was the total number of robberies where firearms were used in England and Wales, including the Metropolitan Police area, in each of the three last years; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Carlisle

The number of offences of robbery, or assault with intent to rob, involving the use of firearms known to the police in England and Wales was 463 in 1969, 475 in 1970 and 572 in 1971.

Mr. Fowler

Does my hon. and learned Friend agree that these are disturbing figures? Is it not a fact that there is an increase in armed crime not only in Britain but throughout Europe? Is not one of the facts of this situation that arms are very easy to obtain at present? Will the Government open talks with other European countries aimed at cutting down the supply of arms coming into Britain?

Mr. Carlisle

Of course I agree that any increase in the use of firearms is disturbing, and a matter for concern. As for the control of firearms, my hon. Friend will remember that a review was carried out under the Chief Inspector of Constabulary. The report has recently arrived in the Home Office and my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary will be considering it shortly.

Mr. John Fraser

Do not the figures show that despite the protestations about law and order by the Conservatives before the last election the Government have had no success in dealing with gun law—a failure with which the public are disgusted? Will the Minister agree that there is an excessive number of licences and guns in existence—almost 1 million—and will he consider verification of the arms at present held under licences for both shotguns and firearms, perhaps calling them in for inspection? Will he consider tighter control on transfer?

Mr. Carlisle

The hon. Member is talking absolute nonsense. The figures prove nothing of the kind. I remind him of the steps that the Government have taken. We have set up an inquiry into the control of firearms; under the Criminal Justice Act we have increased the penalties for firearm offences, and we have substantially increased the number of people in the police force. None of those steps was taken by the previous Government.