§ Viscountess ASTORasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the increase in the number of cases of criminal or indecent assaults upon children; and whether, in view of the seriousness of the offence, he will consider the advisability of taking steps so that the sentences which can be imposed under summary jurisdiction should be increased, or that all such cases should be tried before a superior court?
§ Mr. SHORTTNo evidence of any general increase in the number of assaults on children has been brought to my notice. If the hon. Member will let me have any evidence on this point that she may have in her possession, I will consider the matter further.