asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how the figures for 1963 compare with the previous year in respect of crimes of violence against the person, including sexual offences.

The number of crimes against the person made known to the police in Scotland in 1963 was 4,604, of which 2,084 were sexual offences. The corresponding figures for 1962 were 4,508 and 2,079.

I admit that I cannot say that there is much increase, but, in view of the figures which my noble Friend has given, does not my noble Friend agree that there is still the need for far more severe punishment—

Corporal punishment?

—yes, preferably physical—and that this should be adopted in Scotland?

No, Sir; we are not in favour of the reintroduction of corporal punishment.

Do the crimes of violence listed include offences committed by motorists under the influence of drink, which are causing a great deal of concern in Ayrshire? Is it proposed to introduce flogging for such cases?

No, Sir.

Is my noble friend satisfied that a Bill similar to the Malicious Damage Bill is necessary in Scotland, or is the law adequate, in her opinion, to deal with hooliganism?

I think that the law at present is adequate. A great deal is done by the police, so far as they can, in crime prevention.

Perhaps I should have made clear that the figures which I gave do not all involve violence. The numbers involving violence were 1,936 in 1963 and 1,829 in 1962.