Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Home Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Julian Brazier Excerpts
Monday 21st May 2012

(12 years, 7 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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James Brokenshire Portrait James Brokenshire
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It may not surprise the hon. Gentleman to learn that I do not share his characterisation of the antisocial behaviour measures on which we have been consulting. The criminal behaviour order would carry a tough criminal sanction for breach, and other measures, such as the crime prevention injunction, are about having speedier justice to bring relief to communities. These measures are about strengthening the response to antisocial behaviour, not weakening it. The hon. Gentleman will see that when the White Paper is published tomorrow.

Julian Brazier Portrait Mr Julian Brazier (Canterbury) (Con)
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Does my hon. Friend agree that one of the best ways to strengthen the impact of antisocial behaviour legislation would be to extend the welcome category of offences that he and my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary are considering for which the police can themselves prosecute, without having to go through all the bureaucracy of the Crown Prosecution Service?

James Brokenshire Portrait James Brokenshire
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I absolutely agree. This is about reducing bureaucracy and giving discretion to the police to be able to get on and conduct such charges. My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary is examining precisely that issue and the relevant offences which may apply.