§ Mr. Nicholas BennettTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received seeking the abolition of the age limit below which parents cannot be held responsible-for vandalism caused by their children; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenParents are not responsible in law for criminal offences committed by their children, although they may be required to pay fines or other financial penalties imposed on children who have reached the age of criminal responsibility (10 years) but are under the age of 17. In 1987, the Home Office received about 20 letters suggesting that parents should be made liable for the criminal acts of their children; about half of them specifically suggested that such liability should extend to children below the age of criminal responsibility.