§ Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will call for a report from the Chief Constable regarding damage done by vandals between Dorchester and Weymouth on 21st June, the cost of which was £2,000.
§ Mr. SharplesI will write to my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is satisfied as to the operation of the law regarding vandalism; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CarlisleThe law relating to malicious damage, including the penalties available to the courts, is under 135W review by the Law Commission. The powers of the courts under the present law are substantial, and I am confident that chief constables are doing all they can, according to the circumstances of each particular area, to prevent offences and to bring offenders to justice.