Hooliganism and Vandalism

HC Deb 04 April 1977 vol 929 cc320-1W

Mr. Gwilym Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will initiate a campaign against hooliganism and vandalism.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

The police, and others in co-operation with the police, area already waging a campaign against these undesirable and criminal activities. My actions are designed to support that campaign.

We have made provision for increases in police strength, promoted discussion of measures to combat hooliganism associated with football matches, and will soon hold a conference about measures to prevent vandalism.

We also propose, through the Criminal Law Bill, which is being considered in another place, to increase substantially the maximum fines and amounts of compensation which offenders may be ordered to pay by magistrates' courts for offences associated with vandalism and hooliganism.

This is not a matter for the Government or the police alone. Our campaign needs in particular the support of all those who are in a position to control or influence young people who may be tempted to commit acts of hooliganism and vandalism.