§ Mr. Wrightasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has to make as a result of his discussions with the Lord Provost and magistrates of Glasgow, with a view to the curbing of crime and violence in the city.
§ Mr. RossMy hon. Friend, the Joint Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, met representatives of Glasgow Corporation on 8th December.
The meeting discussed the question of extended police powers under the Prevention of Crime Act 1953 in respect of persons carrying offensive weapons. On this, the position is as I stated it in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend, 304W the Member for Motherwell, on 23rd January.
The meeting went on to a fruitful discussion on other possible action to reduce crime and disorderly behaviour, particularly by young people. The Corporation welcomed a proposal by my hon. Friend that the police, in co-operation with the Scottish Information Office, should undertake a police publicity campaign this year. The meeting also discussed the provision of community facilities and the development of community activities in the new housing areas and agreed to set up a working party of Corporation and Departmental officials to examine how progress might be made in this field.
Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what new proposals he has to deal with the increase in crimes of violence.
§ Mr. RossI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given today to the hon. Member for Dumfries (Mr. Monro) and other hon. Members.