§ Mr. Redmondasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many persons have been convicted and given prison sentences during each of the past three years in respect of vandalism ; and whether, in view of the continued nuisance from vandalism, he will consider introducing legislation to raise the penalties.
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§ Mr. CarlisleA table showing the number of persons in England and Wales convicted and given prison sentences, including suspended sentences, in respect of offences classified as malicious injuries to property or malicious damage is set out below. These figures comprise both indictable and summary offences.
Year Number of persons convicted at all courts Number sentenced to immediate imprisonment Number given a suspended sentence of imprisonment 1968 18,687 834 476 1969 19,308 816 477 1970 21,502 919 542 The Criminal Damage Act, which received Royal Assent on 14th July, consolidates the law relating to offences of malicious damage and provides in general for a maximum penalty on conviction on indictment of 10 years' imprisonment.