HC Deb 22 February 1973 vol 851 c138W
48. Mr. Stanbrook

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why he has instructed the Metropolitan Police not to assist local authorities wishing to enforce laws against unlawful camping by gipsies except in the event of a breach of the peace; and what advice he has given to local authorities seeking police co-operation in enforcing such laws.

Mr. Carlisle

My right hon. Friend has issued no such instructions or advice. The enforcement of the criminal law in individual cases is a matter for the chief officer of police concerned, but unauthorised camping is not, in general, a criminal offence. When the police attend an eviction they do so in order to deal with or prevent a breach of the peace.