HC Deb 05 March 1993 vol 220 cc353-4W
Mr. Hood

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what representations he has had from groups and individuals about the law in relation to obscene, violent and pornographic material; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what representations he has had from groups and individuals calling for Government action to review the law in relation to obscene, violent and pornographic material; and if he will make a statement.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

[holding answer 2 March 1993]: We receive occasional representations both from groups and individuals about the law concerning such material. Current legislation on this matter is kept under constant review. The Government are supporting the Video Recordings (Amendment) Bill introduced in another place, which aims to improve the enforcement of the Video Recordings Act 1984.

Mr. Hood

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list the numbers of convictions of offences relating to obscene, violent and pornographic publications each year since 1979; and if he will make a statement.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

[holding answer 2 March 1993]: Information is not available in the form requested. The table shows the number of persons with a main charge proved of handling obscene material.

Persons with a charge proved
1979 24
1980 16
1981 8
1982 8
1983 15
1984 21
1985 19

Persons with a charge proved
1986 18
1987 20
1988 17
1989 14
1990 13
1991 8