§ Mr. David MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to tackle the problem of violent crime in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonThe detection and prevention of violent crime is given a high priority by police forces throughout Scotland. The Government continue to provide substantial resources to assist the police in maintaining law and order: since 1979 police expenditure has risen by more than 50 per cent. in real terms. The Government will also continue to ensure that an adequate range of penalties is available to the courts to deal with all crimes and offences, including those involving violence.