HC Deb 07 July 1970 vol 803 cc27-8W
49 and 50. Mr. Marples

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what scientific research has been done in his Department about the causes of vandalism and the motives which cause young people to indulge in vandalism;

(2) if he will set up a committee to investigate why there has been an increase in vandalism and what motivates people to be destructive and make recommendations.

Mr. Sharples

The Institute of Criminology at Cambridge University has recently agreed to undertake, with Home Office financial support, studies of violence, among them a survey that should indicate the best lines for further inquiry on violence, including vandalism. Meanwhile, I am not persuaded that the appointment of a committee would be of assistance.