§ Mr. SimsTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received about the adequacy of the powers of the courts to deal with juvenile offenders; what proposals he has for a change in the law; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. JackWe have received a number of representations about juvenile offending, especially about frequent offending by what appears to be a comparatively small number of youngsters. My right hon. and learned Friend and I understand and share the concerns that have been expressed. We are therefore looking urgently at the existing arrangements for responding to this kind of offending behaviour before deciding what new measures, including possible changes in the law, it might be sensible to introduce.