§ Mr. EdwardsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement regarding the funding of crime prevention panels.
§ Mr. John PattenCrime prevention panels are an excellent means by which local communities can become involved through voluntary activity in the fight against crime. They are encouraged to be self-sufficient and to seek local funding arrangements. Many crime prevention panels obtain sponsorship from local businesses. Possible sources of funding will vary from area to area but Crime Concern has published a booklet entitled "Attracting Business Sponsorship" which provides detailed advice for panels on how to obtain sponsorship for crime prevention. A few police forces are known to have given financial support for specific initiatives run by panels. In support of the work of crime prevention panels in the areas concerned, grants have also been made under the safer cities programme which brings extra crime prevention resources to 20 selected high crime areas in England. Some panels have been successful in obtaining charity status and 491W any panel wishing to do this may contact the Charity Commission which will advise it on the necessary procedures.