§ 28. Mr. Norman Fowlerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what has been the increase in crime so far this year compared with the similar period in 1973; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsThe number of offences recorded as known to the police in England and Wales increased by 20 per cent. in the first six months of 1974 by comparison with the corresponding 467W period in 1973. Offences involving violence showed a much smaller increase, but this was offset by very considerable increases in offences of dishonesty and criminal damage. It will continue to be the Government's policy to take all practicable measures to prevent and contain crime and, in particular, to strengthen the police and further improve their efficiency.