HC Deb 02 December 1968 vol 774 cc369-70W
Mr. Whitaker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many convictions there have been in the last convenient period for damage on football-match trains; what has been the maximum penalty imposed; what is the maximum possible penalty; and whether he will consult with the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and chief constables to form a special unit to counter these crimes.

Mr. Elystan Morgan

The available statistics do not distinguish between convictions for this and other malicious damage. The maximum penalty on conviction under Section 51 of the Malicious Damage Act 1861 is imprisonment for up to two years (five years where the offence is committed at night), or a fine (not limited in amount), or both. Proceedings may, however, be brought under other provisions. Responsibility for police action against these offences lies with the British Transport Police, and they already have the close co-operation of the Metropolitan and other police forces.