HC Deb 02 March 1972 vol 832 cc170-1W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, now that the figures are available, he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT the table of figures in his possession of the persons found guilty, and their sentences, in the Metropolitan Police district during 1970 for fraud why the figures for 1971 are not yet available; when these will become available; and why details are not available for areas other than in the Metropolitan Police area.

Mr. Sharples

Following is the information:

Sentences imposed on persons four in 1970 in the Metropolitan Police District of offences classified as fraud
Absolute discharge 18
Conditional discharge 472
Probation 274
Fine 1,347
Imprisonment (immediate) 420
Otherwise dealt with 813
Total persons found guilty 3,344

Corresponding figures are available for the rest of England and Wales.

The processing of information relating to persons dealt with by the courts in England and Wales, including the Metropolitan Police District, takes some time. I hope the statistics for 1971 will be available in the summer.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT details in his possession of the amounts involved in offences of fraud investigated by the Metropolitan and City Police during 1970.

Mr. Sharples

The annual report of the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis shows that the Metropolitan and City of London Police Company Fraud Squad investigated 258 serious cases of alleged fraud in 1970 involving approximately £36 million.