§ 44. Mr. Monroasked the Lord Advocate what new instructions he has issued to procurators fiscal regarding prosecutions of football hooligans.
§ The Lord AdvocateOn 18th November 1976 I directed that all persons reported to procurators fiscal following arrest on charges relating to football hooliganism should be brought before the sheriff court if the evidence was sufficient to merit prosecution.
§ Mr. MonroI accept the Lord Advocate's reply, but does he accept that only severe penalties will bring to order those hooligans who disrupt football matches? Does he not agree with the Secretary of State about the collection of fines and further custodial sentences?
§ The Lord AdvocateThe latter part of the hon. Gentleman's question is part of a long-term project, which is already under way. I am happy to accept his first point.