§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what instructions are given to security staff in his departmental offices in London for dealing with(a) those sleeping rough in departmental doorways and (b) beggars in the vicinity; and how many problems have been experienced with each category in the last three months.
§ Mr. HanleyNo specific instructions are issued to security staff in my Department's London buildings for 155W dealing with those sleeping rough and beggars, but in the light of the continuing terrorist threat it is our policy to ensure that perimeters of buildings are kept clear at all times. Records are not maintained of specific incidents, but it is the policy of my Department's security staff to seek the assistance of the police where there is a problem.