§ Mr. BellinghamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on the initial impact of Industry Watch in combating crime and vandalism on industrial estates.
§ Mr. John PattenIndustry watch enables the police, local business and industry and, in some instances, the local authority, to bring their expertise and resources together to introduce measures to prevent crime in industrial areas. Comprehensive information about every industry watch scheme is not held centrally, but we are aware of a number of successful schemes in different parts of the country, including the excellent one at the North Lynn industrial estate in my hon. Friend's constituency. I understand from the chief constable of Norfolk that in the first 12 months from the scheme's introduction in March 1987, no crimes were recorded on the estate by the police. The local crime prevention officer concerned with this scheme is in touch with other police forces interested in establishing industry watch schemes in their areas based on this excellent model.