§ Mr. CryerTo ask the Lord President of the Council what is the estimated value of property stolen from the House of Commons during 1990 and in 1991 to the most recent practicable date; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacGregorThe estimated value of property reported stolen in the Palace of Westminster and in the Parliamentary Outbuildings was £16,700 in 1990 and £15,800 to date in 1991. This includes property stolen from contractors, which accounts for two thirds of the 1990 figure, as well as from Members, their staff and staff of both Houses.
Each report of property stolen is vigorously followed up by the police, but it would greatly assist if articles of value were secured and desks and filing cabinets locked when offices are left unattended.