§ Dr. Goodson-WickesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment he has made of the implications for the workability of the Football Spectators Bill[Lords] of the extent to which the case for its provision has been made in the absence of separate figures for the number of arrests made inside football grounds.
§ Mr. Moynihan[holding answer 16 March 1989]: Separate figures are not available distinguishing total arrests at football league matches in England and Wales made inside grounds and those directly connected with such matches made in the vicinity of and/en route to and from grounds. However, both are undoubtedly much reduced by the high level of police resources deployed at matches and by the strict segregation of supporters, the use of closed circuit television and video, and other measures. The Football Spectators Bill, in disqualifying trouble-makers from attending designated matches, will be effective in reducing misbehaviour inside grounds and, since those disqualified will be deterred from travelling to matches, outside and on journeys to and from matches as well.