Written question asked by Christopher Fraser (Conservative) on Tuesday, 24 May 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 May 2005. It was answered by Hazel Blears (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 June 2005 on behalf of the Home Office.

Householders (Police Guidance)

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what guidance he has issued to the police in the use of reasonable force by householders defending themselves, others or property from intruders.

Answer: The Crown Prosecution Service and the Association of Chief Police Officers issued guidance in February 2005 which sets out in plain language what householders' rights are and the level of force that they can use if faced with an intruder in their home. In supporting this, the Home Office has issued general guidance which is contained in our "Guide to Home Security" and "Be Safe, Be Secure" leaflets and on the Crime Reduction website www.crimereduction.gov.uk.

Secondary information