HC Deb 24 November 1949 vol 470 cc45-6W
70. Mr. Harrison

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will take steps to increase the penalties for illegally being in possession of arms, in view of the increase of crimes of violence, where the perpetrators have been armed.

Mr. Ede

No. The penalties under the existing law for the unlawful possession of arms and, in particular, for the possession of arms to facilitate the commission of criminal offences are already severe. I have no reason to think that the use of firearms in connection with criminal offence is increasing or that my hon. Friend's proposal would have any beneficial effect.