Mr. John M. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received with regard to the threat to good order and quiet enjoyment represented by hooligans, vandals, litter louts and graffiti writers.
§ Mr. John PattenWe receive frequent, and understandable, representations on these subjects. In regard to the lower level of offences, much can be achieved through local preventive approaches, including proper enforcement of the law against under age drinking, good planning and provision of constructive activities for young people who may otherwise congregate on the streets causing a nuisance. The Government have taken firm action against the misuse of alcohol associated with football matches and are discussing with the Football League what more needs to be done to control hooliganism. The police are giving a high priority to combatting racially motivated harassment and the Home Office has issued guidance to forces on the recording and handling of racial attacks. The Public Order Act 1986 created the new offence of disorderly conduct to deal with loutish behaviour liable to cause harassment, distress or alarm to vulnerable members of the community.