HC Deb 03 March 1960 vol 618 cc153-4W
65 and 66. Mr. F. Harris

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1), in view of the large number of cars stolen daily in the Metropolitan Police area, what further action he proposes to take to reduce these crimes; and if he will make a statement advising the public what steps to take to lessen the risk of having their cars stolen;

(2) if he will consider instituting an inquiry, with a view to taking steps to reduce the market and outlet for the large number of cars stolen daily in this country, thereby minimising the incentive for such thefts.

Mr. R. A. Butler

The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis already takes special measures, the nature of which it would not be in the public interest to disclose, to detect car thieves. He also gives advice to car owners, through leaflets, posters, films, and television. I would wish to emphasise that the main responsibility for reducing the occasion of theft lies on owners themselves.

The general problem of car thefts throughout the country already receives the special attention of chief officers of police.

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