HC Deb 11 March 1976 vol 907 cc284-5W
35. Mr. Townsend

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will further investigate ways in which private security and equipment firms could be used to relieve the police of the burden of crime prevention.

Dr. Summerskill

The prevention of crime is one of the primary functions of the police, and there can be no question of reducing or sharing police responsibility in this field. The arrangements for liaison between police and private security firms and equipment manufacturers are generally speaking satisfactory. We see no need for a special investigation; if, however, the hon. Member has any particular points in mind, we should be glad to consider them.