§ 7. Mr. Simsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what advice his Department gives to householders wishing to make their premises secure against breaking and entering.
§ Dr. SummerskillI am sending the hon. Member a copy of the booklet "Protect Your Home", which has been delivered to every household in England and Wales. The police are always ready to give further advice to householders.
§ Mr. SimsI am grateful to the Minister for sending me the literature, although one copy has already been delivered to my household. Does she agree that burglar alarm equipment plays an important part in the protection of the home? Is she aware that this equipment is more expensive for domestic premises than it is for industrial premises because in domestic use it attracts 25 per cent. VAT while in commercial use the rate is 8 per cent.? Will she make representations to the Chancellor to remove this ridiculous anomaly?
§ Dr. SummerskillI undertake to do that.
§ Mr. BudgenMight not the Home Office listen to some of the advice given to it from householders, in particular, to get the police up to strength?
§ Dr. SummerskillA question has been tabled about police recruitment. As the hon. Gentleman knows, we are making every possible effort to increase police recruitment and we have made greater progress than ever before.