Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Home Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Caroline Nokes Excerpts
Monday 19th March 2012

(12 years, 7 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Nick de Bois Portrait Nick de Bois (Enfield North) (Con)
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16. What steps she is taking to tackle metal theft.

Caroline Nokes Portrait Caroline Nokes (Romsey and Southampton North) (Con)
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17. What steps she is taking to tackle metal theft.

Andrew Bingham Portrait Andrew Bingham (High Peak) (Con)
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18. What steps she is taking to tackle metal theft.

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John Bercow Portrait Mr Speaker
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Order. That is very informative, but I say to the Minister that it would be helpful if we could make some progress. Reading out great screeds just slows things down. It is quite straightforward, really.

Caroline Nokes Portrait Caroline Nokes
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Last month, a bronze eagle statue was stolen from the memorial garden at the museum of Army flying in Middle Wallop in my constituency. The statue was placed there to commemorate brave Army aviators who had served their country. What discussions has my hon. Friend had with the Ministry of Justice about sentencing guidelines for those who desecrate memorials to our servicemen and women?

James Brokenshire Portrait James Brokenshire
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My hon. Friend highlights the significant community impact that metal thefts and desecrations of war memorials and other historical sites have had, and the often irrevocable harm that can be caused. The Bill is being considered in the other place as we speak, and the sanctions in it can lead to an unlimited fine. We will look to follow that through with colleagues in the Ministry of Justice.