§ 82. Mr. Jacques ArnoldTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps are being taken to control acid house parties.
§ Mr. John PattenThe police and local authorities are already taking a variety of measures under existing powers to stop or regulate parties of this kind, but we consider that the law needs to be strengthened. Accordingly, we welcome the introduction by my hon. Friend the Member for Luton, South (Mr. Bright) of the Entertainments (Increased Penalties) Bill. This seeks to empower the summary courts to impose fines of up to £20,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both, on people convicted of the relevant offences against the entertainment licensing laws. In addition, the provisions will give magistrates the power to order the confiscation of profits made by those convicted of organising illegal parties or allowing their land or premises to be used for them.