§ Mr. Willie W. Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the latest crime statistics.
§ Mr. BrittanI am disappointed that recorded crime in England and Wales increased by 8 per cent. in 1984, following a reduction of 1 per cent. in 1983. The Government have a clear strategy for dealing with crime by strengthening the police, extending the prison building programme, improving the effectiveness of all the criminal justice services and other measures. More has still to be done, but I am satisfied that our programme is realistic and effective.