HC Deb 25 November 1987 vol 123 cc191-2W
Mr. Cryer

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will seek powers to control the publications of advertisements which encourage the commission of criminal offences such as smuggling, the productions of bombs, or the illegal purchase of firearms; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

It is an offence to solicit or incite another to commit a crime, whether or not the solicitation or incitement has any effect. A person who publishes an advertisement inciting any of the activities mentioned is thus liable to be charged with a criminal offence. We have no plans to introduce any further form of restriction.