HC Deb 05 March 1987 vol 111 cc684-5W
19. Mr. Patrick Thompson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what progress has been made by his Department in stimulating private sector interest in crime prevention initiatives.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

Private sector involvement in crime prevention has substantially increased following the crime prevention seminars held at 10 Downing street last year.

New standards for car security and for security in newly-built houses are important examples of the increased attention which the private sector is giving to crime prevention.

The organisations representing the private sector are also involving themselves more in crime prevention work. They are, for example, participating actively in the working groups of the Home Office standing conference on crime prevention; the Association of British Chambers of Commerce has launched an initiative to promote its members' involvement in crime prevention work; I recently met representatives of the Confederation of British Industry to discuss a programme of crime prevention work involving its members.

Hanson Trust has seconded a member of staff to the Home Office as consultant on private sector involvement in crime prevention.

24. Mr. Peter Bruinvels

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will detail what lighting initiatives in the field of crime prevention he has taken; and what sums of money are involved.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

The Home Office was involved in the preparation of the National House-Building Council guidance note for builders which includes advice on street lighting for estates and welcomed the British Standards Institute guide for architects and planners which includes advice on domestic lighting as a crime prevention measure.

27. Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what responses he has had to his proposals on crime prevention.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

There has been a generally favourable and encouraging response to our crime prevention strategy. A good example of the general public's response has been the establishment of well over 18,000 neighbourhood watch schemes. Many local authorities are increasingly incorporating crime prevention measures in their activities using Government funding where appropriate. Other Government Departments have adopted crime prevention programmes. The private sector is making an increasing contribution to a range of crime prevention activity at national and local levels.