§ 37. Mr. Bill Walkerasked the Solicitor-General for Scotland how many prosecutions of travelling people have been referred to his office by the Perth police in the period August, September and October 1980.
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandIn the months of August, September and October 1980, the procurator fiscal at Perth has referred to the Crown Office six police reports involving 31 persons in connection with unauthorised encampments by travelling people. One of these reports—involving seven persons—related to encampments on the A9 slip road leading to the bridge over the River Almond just north of Perth; three reports—involving 13 persons—related to encampments at Morningside layby, Balbeggie, on the A94; one report—involving seven persons—related to encampments at Balhomie, Cargill, on the A93 Perth to Braemar Road; and one report—involving four persons—related to an encampment on the Muir of Alyth. These reports were considered personally by my noble and learned Friend the Lord Advocate, who, having regard to all the circumstances, instructed that no proceedings should be taken.
§ Mr. WalkerIs my hon. and learned Friend aware that this problem is causing great concern in my constituency? May I have his assurance that these individuals, who now believe that they are above the law and are openly saying so, will be prosecuted as and when suitable alternative sites are shown to be available?
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandYes. I understand that the local authority has now identified two sites which we hope will be approved shortly. Of course, anybody who commits a criminal offence will be prosecuted, but there is little purpose in moving a person from one site to another if he is merely to recommit the offence by being moved.
§ Mr. BuchanWill the Solicitor-General at least congratulate his hon. Friend on getting his language right this time? Is he aware that the main problem arises from the persecution that emanates from the minds and temperament of people like the hon. Member for Perth and East Perthshire (Mr. Walker)? Is not the right solution for the Government to commit more funds to local authorities, so that they might provide proper sites for travelling folk?
§ The Solicitor-General for ScotlandI rind that comment strange, coming as it does from one of the principal paranoiacs in the House. The hon. Gentleman, however, will remember that the local authority gets a 100 per cent. grant. It is not possible, therefore, to provide more money. No doubt the hon. Member for Renfrewshire, West (Mr. Buchan), like all good members of the Labour Party, is anxious to spend more than 100 per cent. of other people's money.
§ Mr. WalkerOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. May I draw your attention to the comments of the hon. Member for Renfrewshire, West (Mr. Buchan)? I am not aware of having used unparliamentary language at any time.
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Gentleman should raise the point of order after Question Time.