§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will take steps to arrange for a special corps of retired ex-police officers and Service men to form an anti-mugging patrol in the areas of London where this offence is becoming too prevalent to enable such a force to patrol in plain clothes: and what action he proposes to take to deal with this growing menace.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis has made clear that, while the police welcome the traditional assistance of members of the public, he is firmly against the formation of"vigilante"groups. Member of the public who want to help the police can best do so by joining the Special Constabulary.
The prevention and detection of street crime in London is primarily the responsibility of the Commissioner. Where particular problems are identified and other commitments allow, special squads are established to deal with this type of crime.