§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what plans he has to legislate to control religious cults; [58440]
(2) if he will set up an inquiry into religious cults with a view to creating an acceptable framework for their operations. [58441]
§ Mr. George HowarthWe have no plans to do so. The Government understand concerns expressed about the influence of some groups on individuals, but do not consider that it would be feasible or appropriate to introduce specific legislation or regulation. All such groups are subject to the general law, including harassment, obtaining property or money by deception, kidnap, false imprisonment, offences against the person and sexual assault. Any complaints about breaches of the law should be reported to the police.
§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many representations he has received in the past year from hon. Members on behalf of constituents with family members who belong to religious cults. [58439]
§ Mr. George HowarthSince 1 November 1997, we have received 17 such representations from hon. Members, including 12 on behalf of one constituent.