Vandalism

HC Deb 06 July 1978 vol 953 cc242-3W

37. Mr. Ashley

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what further steps he proposes to take to combat vandalism.

Dr. Summerskill

We shall continue to encourage effective counter-measures to deal with vandalism. Although specific measures need to be planned locally in response to particular problems, and there is no single, or simple solution, the Home Office will continue to provide support for example through research, information, publicity, and the training of police officers in crime prevention.

Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what has been the estimated cost of vandalism in each of the last five years.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

It is not possible to make a reliable estimate of the substantial costs involved, although it is generally accepted that they could now exceed £100 million a year.