§ Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs ( I ) what action(a) has been taken and (b) is planned by her Department to tackle problems of graffiti; and if she will make a statement; [64733]
(2) what advertising campaigns (a) have taken place and (b) are planned by (i) her Department, (ii) the Environment Agency and (iii) other Government bodies in relation to tackling problems from graffiti; how much these have cost; what assessment has been made of their effect; and if she will make a statement; [64735]
(3) what (a) advice and guidance has been given by her Department and (b) legislation is in place with relation to tackling problems of graffiti; and if she will make a statement. 164734]
§ Mr. DenhamI have been asked to reply.
Tackling graffiti requires action by several Government Departments. It is one of the subjects that is being addressed in the cross cutting review on Improving Public Spaces.
Writing graffiti is an offence under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. Where criminal proceedings are not appropriate it can also be dealt with through a number of measures designed to address anti-social behaviour, including anti-social behaviour orders.
Neighbourhood wardens programmes and proposals for community safety officers will also help to reduce yobbish 957W behaviour, such as graffiti writing. Crime and Disorder Partnerships are also working with local communities to tackle graffiti.
I understand that the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has not undertaken any advertising campaigns that are specific to graffiti.