HC Deb 24 July 1989 vol 157 c500W
Mr. Janner

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many complaints have been made in the London metropolitan area under the Malicious Communications Act 1988; and what was their outcome.

Mr. John Patten

I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him on 13 July 1989 at column644.

Mr. Janner

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) if he will make a statement about publicity given to the effect of the Malicious Communications Act 1988;

(2) what sums he has spent on publicity to draw the attention of the public to the effects of the Malicious Communications Act 1988;

(3) whether he will take steps to increase public awareness of the provisions of the Malicious Communications Act 1988.

Mr. Douglas Hogg

We issued a press notice on 29 July 1988, when the Malicious Communications Act 1988 received Royal Assent, drawing attention to the Act's provisions. A Home Office circular was issued on 1 September 1988 to the courts, the police and the Crown prosecution service to explain the provisions of the Act and to advise of its commencement on 29 September. It is not possible to calculate the costs of issuing the press notice and circular without incurring disproportionate cost. The Government continue to take opportunities to keep members of the public informed about developments in the criminal law.