§ 23. Mr. Hugh Jenkinsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what statistics are available to him on the number of attacks on bookshops by fascist and racialist organisations over the last five years: and what representations he has received from the trade on this matter.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesStatistics of offences of criminal damage do not distinguish types of premises attacked or the affilia270W tions of those convicted. I have received a number of representations in recent months about attacks on bookshops, particularly in London. I share the concern expressed, and I have been told by the chief officers of police for the relevant areas that they are doing all they can to apprehend offenders and to prevent further attacks.