§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland, in view of the fact that the number of incidents of vandalism reported to the police in Strathclyde increased by 29 per cent. in 1977, and the cost of damage to property of the regional council was £2,396,799 in 1977, if he will take steps to establish the reasons for the increase in vandalism in Scotland; and what remedies he proposes.
§ Mr. MillanI agree there is a serious problem of vandalism. I have made funds available for a publicity campaign stressing the responsibilities of parents, and I am seeking to raise the level of penalties the courts can impose for offences of vandalism. But I am sure that satisfactory remedies will depend on continuing and, indeed, increased public cooperation.