Oral Answers to Questions — Crimes of Violence

– in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 31 July 1952.

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Photo of Mr Robert Crouch Mr Robert Crouch , North Dorset 12:00, 31 July 1952

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department in view of the increase of crimes of violence in England and Wales, from 2,533 in 1936 to 7,188 in 1951, what steps he proposes to take to bring about a reduction of crimes of this nature.

Photo of Mr David Maxwell Fyfe Mr David Maxwell Fyfe , Liverpool, West Derby

I wish that there were a simple remedy to this problem. The increase in crime gives cause for great concern to all of us. I have been giving anxious thought to it and I should welcome any suggestions which my hon. Friend may wish to put to me as to what steps might usefully be taken.

Photo of Mr Robert Crouch Mr Robert Crouch , North Dorset

I thank my right hon. and learned Friend for his reply, but does he not consider it our gravest social problem that citizens engaged in their lawful pursuits should be robbed, maimed and murdered daily in our towns and cities? Does he feel that proper use is being made of the specials to assist the regular police in maintaining law and order?

Photo of Mr David Maxwell Fyfe Mr David Maxwell Fyfe , Liverpool, West Derby

I shall consider that suggestion. I have answered Questions on this point and I assure the House that I am personally considering it as carefully as I can.