Motor Vehicles (Theft)

HC Deb 12 July 1961 vol 644 cc56-7W

Mr. Owen

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many cars and lorries were stolen in 1960.

Mr. R. A. Butler

The number of motor vehicles, including motor cycles, reported by the police in England and Wales as stolen was 16,565. Separate figures for cars and lorries are not available.

Mr. Owen

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will introduce legislation to make it compulsory for all motor vehicles to carry a safety device which will guard against theft.

Mr. R. A. Butler

It is primarily the responsibility of the owner to protect his motor vehicle against theft. The police are always ready to advise owners as to the precautions that can be taken, but I can find no sufficient grounds for introducing legislation of the kind suggested.