§ Mr. Murphyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what evidence he has that police forces are using "neighbourhood watchers" in conjuction with local police to combat crime; what studies his Department has made of the efficacy of these schemes; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MayhewAll police forces promote the good neighbour scheme in which householders are encouraged to ask a neighbour to keep an eye on their homes when unoccupied. The Department has not studied the scheme but research into similar schemes in North America has shown them to be successful in reducing crime.