HC Deb 19 November 1984 vol 68 cc42-3W
Mr. Dobson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what information he has as to which of the books seized from Gay's the Word bookshop and kept by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise are obtainable in other bookshops and public libraries.

Mr. Hayhoe

[pursuant to his reply, 16 November 1984, c. 373]: Such information based upon what is obtainable in bookshops and libraries throughout the country is not available.

Mr. Dobson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many of the books seized from Gay's the Word bookshop and kept by Her Majesty's Customs and Excise have been the subject of prosecutions under the Obscene Publications Act.

Mr. Hayhoe

[pursuant to his reply, 16 November 1984, c. 373]: This information is not available. No comprehensive central records are kept of prosecutions under the Act by police forces throughout the country.

Mr. Dobson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many officers of Her Majesty's Customs and Excise were involved in the raids connected with Gay's the Word bookshop; and how many have been involved in reading the books.

Mr. Hayhoe

[pursuant to his reply, 16 November 1984, c. 373]: Nine Customs officers were involved either in the so-called raid on Gay's the Word bookshop or in visits to premises connected with the bookshop. Up to 36 Customs officers have been involved from time to time in reading the books.

Mr. Dobson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the books seized from the Gay's the Word bookshop; the numbers of copies of each book, together with the list of books returned; and the number of copies.

Mr. Hayhoe

[pursuant to his reply, 16 November 1984, c. 374]: As it will take a little time to collate this information, I shall write to the hon. Member.

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