§ Mr. PawseyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will set out in theOfficial Report details of those policies introduced by him since 1983 with the intention of improving the quality of life for the rural communities.
§ Mr. John PattenMany of our policies on crime prevention are applicable to rural areas. We have issued a circular to the police and courts about the powers available to deal with outbreaks of disorder and issued guidance to the courts about arranging speedy court hearings after sudden outbreaks of disorder. We have strengthened controls on firearms and encouraged the creation of local farm watch and rural watch schemes to increase community co-operation in preventing crime.